Planning Statement

Planning Statement – Isle of Play REV A Isle of Play is dedicated to providing children with engaging, safe, and enriching play experiences that support their development and wellbeing. As part of our ongoing commitment to serving the community, we propose extending our facility to incorporate the neighbouring paddock to Lester’s Yard, which is presently unused except for occasional dog walkers. This expansion would significantly enhance Isle of Play’s facilities, creating new opportunities for both children and the wider community.

Proposal for Expansion

Our plan involves replacing the existing timber building, which unfortunately is in a state of decay, with a new larger building that can better accommodate the service.

As the new building will be larger, part of it will extend into a small area of the paddock. The remaining area of the paddock will be maintained as lawn and orchard. This would ensure a secure environment for traditional outdoor activities such as picnics, football, cricket, and rounders, free from dog mess and available for local events.

The proposed building would consist of two integrated spaces: Space One (Lester’s Yard):

• o A large social room with a fully equipped kitchen
• o Storage room
• o Small office
• o Two toilets

Space Two (Paddock - Therapeutic Space):

• o A separate entrance for therapy and support sessions
• o Facilities to accommodate:

•  Play therapy
•  Art therapy
•  Parent and child support groups

We have consulted with Douglas Council, the owners of the land, and they are supportive of our proposals, with consent given by the DBC Regeneration Committee on 12th March 2025Community Benefits & Future Sustainability

The extension of Isle of Play into the paddock would allow us to better meet the needs of the community, future-proofing our services for the next 20 years. The additional space will enable us to expand our therapeutic support offerings while maintaining safe, accessible outdoor areas for children to play. Furthermore, the paddock would remain available for council-led community events such as the outdoor cinema and Easter egg hunt, with Isle of Play assisting in providing appropriate facilities where necessary.

Landscaping The proposals require the removal of part of an existing hedge and the relocation of 4 small apple trees. The proposals also include the planting of additional fruit trees, as noted on the drawings, to improve the orchard that could ultimately provide seasonal fruit for children attending the centre, and will also be good for ecology.

Parking The existing car park at Lester’s Yard is well-equipped to accommodate the needs of Isle of Play’s current and future operations. The parking area has sufficient capacity to support staff, visitors, and families attending therapy sessions or play activities, ensuring accessibility and convenience

for all users. The car parking currently works very well, and it is not envisaged the number of visitors the centre will vary significantly following completion of the proposed works.

Additionally, as our operating hours are structured to stagger peak usage times, there will be minimal impact on parking demand. The extended lease and new development will not significantly increase traffic volume beyond manageable levels, ensuring a seamless experience for all those accessing the facility.

We are committed to maintaining efficient parking arrangements and will work closely with the planning department to ensure that all requirements are met, further supporting our goal of providing safe, accessible play and therapeutic spaces for the community.

Operating Hours

Isle of Play operates throughout the week around the Island, ensuring accessibility to families and children who benefit from our services. The current Lester’s Yard opening hours are 16:15 to 18:00 (during school term time); and 10:00 to 16:15 (during school holidays). We would like the site to be available for use: Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Conclusion

The proposed single storey building represents the best solution to meet Isle of Play’s growing needs. With the addition of dedicated therapeutic spaces and extended outdoor areas, we will be able to support more children while continuing to provide a safe, well-maintained environment for play and community engagement.

This expansion will enable Isle of Play to further its mission of enriching children's lives, ensuring our services remain at the heart of the community for generations to come.