25 September 2019 · Delegated
1, Brunswick Road, Douglas, Isle Of Man, IM2 3ll
This application sought permission to install eight replacement windows on the front elevation of 1 Brunswick Road, Douglas — a three-storey corner building with retail units at ground floor and residential units above. The main planning considerations were the potential impact of the new windows on the character and appearance of the building and the wider streetscene, and whether they would preserve or enhance the Conservation Area. The officer noted that the surrounding area is strongly characterised by timber sliding sash windows, and that the existing windows at the property are of that type. The application was permitted on 25 September 2019, subject to one condition.
The application was permitted on 25 September 2019, subject to one condition. The key planning questions were whether the replacement windows would preserve or enhance the Conservation Area's character and whether they would suit the appearance of the building and surrounding streetscene. The area is characterised by timber sliding sash windows, which the existing windows at the property also match.
General Policy 2 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016
complies with GP2
General Policy 2: Development which is in accordance with the land-use zoning and proposals in the appropriate Area Plan and with other policies of this Strategic Plan will normally be permitted, provided that the development: (a) is in accordance with the design brief in the Area Plan where there is such a brief; (b) respects the site and surroundings in terms of the siting, layout, scale, form, design and landscaping of buildings and the spaces around them; (c) does not affect adversely the character of the surrounding landscape or townscape; (d) does not adversely affect the protected wildlife or locally important habitats on the site or adjacent land, including water courses; (e) does not affect adversely public views of the sea; (f) incorporates where possible existing topography and landscape features, particularly trees and sod banks; (g) does not affect adversely the amenity of local residents or the character of the locality; (h) provides satisfactory amenity standards in itself, including where appropriate safe and convenient access for all highway users, together with adequate parking, servicing and manoeuvring space; (i) does not have an unacceptable effect on road safety or traffic flows on the local highways; (j) can be provided with all necessary services; (k) does not prejudice the use or development of adjoining land in accordance with the appropriate Area Plan; (l) is not on contaminated land or subject to unreasonable risk of erosion or flooding; (m) takes account of community and personal safety and security in the design of buildings and the spaces around them; and (n) is designed having due regard to best practice in reducing energy consumption. 6.3 Development outside of areas zoned for development
Environment Policy 35
Within Conservation Areas
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: The Alteration and Replacement of Windows
Buildings in a Conservation Area
Condition 1
The development hereby approved shall be begun before the expiration of four years from the date of this decision notice.
