31 May 2012 · Delegated
8, The Crofts, Castletown, Isle Of Man, IM9 1lw
This application sought permission to install replacement windows and a door in uPVC to the front elevation of 8 The Crofts, Castletown, a three-storey mid-terrace property within the Castletown Conservation Area. The existing windows and front door are timber and appear to be the originals. The other properties in the terrace also retain timber windows and doors, contributing to the street's historic character. The application was refused on 31 May 2012. The decision found that uPVC replacements would fail to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Castletown Conservation Area.
The application was refused because the proposed uPVC windows and door would replace original timber fittings on the front elevation of a property within the Castletown Conservation Area. The use of uPVC was judged to be harmful to the character and appearance of the conservation area, where the rest of the terrace retains its original timber windows and doors.
Refusal Reasons
Environment Policy 35 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan (20th June 2007)
Within Conservation Areas, the Department will permit only development which would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Area
Environment Policy 35: Within Conservation Areas, the Department will permit only development which would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Area, and will ensure that the special features contributing to the character and quality are protected against inappropriate development. 7.30 Development adjacent to Conservation Areas 7.30.1 It is often the case that important views into and out of a Conservation Area can contribute significantly to its character. It is necessary to assess the impact any development adjacent to conservation areas may have on such views.
Planning Circular 1/98
If the original windows are in place they should preferably be repaired. If repair is impracticable, replacement windows which would be readily visible from a public thoroughfare must have the same method of opening as the originals. Whatever the material used in their construction, the windows must have the same frame sections as the original windows.
