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Proposal to Garff Commissioners
September 2024
Dear Mr. Chairman, Town Clerk, and Board of Garff Commissioners
Permit Proposal:
Riversea Sauna seeks the permission of Garff Commissioners and appropriate trader permit, to operate a small barrel mobile sauna unit open to members of the public.
It is proposed that the sauna unit would be situated at the very far end of Laxey Promenade on the roadside that has been designated a No Entry zone for motor vehicles and would not encroach on the Henry Bloom Noble land nor compromise the seating plan of The Shed [see Exhibit A].
Furthermore, the plan would be to enhance the natural landscape with the permission and oversight of Garff Commissioner's and the Department of Infrastructure, to screen the metal fencing currently in place with wooden boards decorated to match the surrounding landscape and be aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
The sauna would be static (on a trailer) causing zero disruption to residents or taking up valuable parking spaces with access to the beach via the newly installed handrails. All appropriate Health and Safety, First Aid and Insurance requirements would be in place and demonstrated as required.
Via a small, dedicated team we provide organised runs, glen walks, fitness activities, incentivised physical development, sea dips, and charity fundraising drives with a strong emphasis on advertising local businesses.
The membership of which, has grown significantly over the past year to 1,000+ members and we have raised funds for several Manx charities including Isle Listen, and provided support for other wellness clubs, such as the Manx Bluetits and Northern Dippers.
Our aim in conjunction with the current commercial tenants within Laxey village and promenade is to enhance our offering to the community and tourists via the provision of a sauna and related amenities in Laxey.
We aim to create a holistic experience that resonates with the island’s biosphere, promoting well-being through an already thriving community of Laxey, having been a resident for many years and holding the village in such high regard.
We have spent several months studying the viability of our proposal and believe there is a further opportunity to compliment what is already available on Laxey Promenade without using any of the public parking spaces available.
Furthermore, by leveraging Laxey’s existing infrastructure, natural assets and with the assistance of Visit Isle of Man, our project will also emphasize active travel options, including the use of electric trams, Bus Vannin services, cycling and walking, to provide accessible and eco-friendly transportation for our guests.
Through these experiences, we discovered the beauty of Laxey and the potential the landscape provides for an exceptional visitor experience which plays a fundamental strand in the Visit Isle of Man Strategic Plan, particularly year round experiences that help achieve an extended tourism season for the already vibrant businesses within Laxey.
We currently operate a successful and creative social media presence, our videos represent the village and its uniqueness through its rich heritage and culture, and beautiful natural landscapes which provide a playground for visitors of all ages. We firmly believe our sauna would provide an additional amenity with a small footprint, encouraging residents to visit the promenade and incentivise their spend with local businesses, and attract people from across the Island and off island tourists to Laxey, generating a favourable and progressive impression.
We know Laxey is the perfect spot for water sport activities, sea swimming, exploring glens, walking and hiking routes, camping or meeting up with friends for coffee, icecream or dinner. Laxey offers the perfect place for a wellness and adventure break with some fantastic popular businesses in upper Laxey, a well maintained camp site, a wonderfully renovated hotel and numerous holiday homes only yards away, where all visitors can truly reconnect with themselves and nature whilst immersed in the beautiful coastline of Laxey.
Riversea Sauna hopes to provide a unique and relaxing experience to the residents and visitors of Laxey. Operating in the designated area of the Promenade outlined below, we will offer sauna sessions during the preferred hours of the Commissioners for example; 09:00 - 18:00 on a weekday and 09:00 - 19:00 on a weekend if approved or preferred. Our primary focus based upon location is to ensure no noise disturbance to residents, a complimentary relationship with The Shed and the Laxey Beach Stop Café to avoid taking up premium car parking space on the promenade.
Use of the sauna will be at low cost, and the facility will be supervised at all times by a qualified individual for health and safety and safeguarding purposes.
The unit itself is smaller than the average ice cream van (for reference), [see Exhibit B] and would require no more than a single parking space at the end of the Promenade with the approval of the DOI. Being mobile, this space would not need to be permanent, and the location can shift depending on the requirements of the Commissioners, the DOI or The Shed who have provided full support with this venture noting its proximity. Furthermore, Riversea Sauna have undertaken a full risk assessment of the project and can provide this via email at your request. Customers will be able to book sessions in advance via an online booking system or walk-in during operating hours.
Photograph of proposed
sauna unit.
This will include social media marketing, local advertising, partnerships with local vendors and participation in local events and festivals where possible.
We will also offer promotional deals and discounts to attract new customers and build a loyal customer base to Laxey for the benefit of the wider community without compromising the active travel philosophy.
This activity will provide additional benefits to Laxey by further enhancing the perception of the village as a vibrant, healthy, and naturally beautiful destination for all ages to enjoy.
In closing, we appreciate the opportunity to propose a fixed sauna business in the village. Together, we can enhance community well-being by providing a space for relaxation, connection, and rejuvenation whilst promoting all aspects of the village.
This venture has the potential to elevate the area’s reputation and provide a haven of relaxation for the community. Imagine the positive buzz and reviews generated by this unique project.
Thank you for considering our proposal, and we look forward to the possibility of bringing this valuable experience to the village with your support. We gratefully seek your approval and required permit to operate.
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