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PLANNING STATEMENT Proposed Change of Use of Ground Floor from Office to Private Healthcare Clinic Site Address: 2/4 Peel Street, Ramsey, IM8 1JH
This planning statement has been prepared in support of an application for a change of use of the ground floor premises at 2/4 Peel Street, Ramsey from office use (currently vacant) to a private healthcare clinic. The proposed development will contribute to the availability of preventative and diagnostic medical services for the local community while making efficient use of an unoccupied commercial space within Ramsey Town Centre.
The site is within a designated Conservation Area, and therefore the proposal has been assessed in the context planning policies relating to development in such areas, particularly Environment Policy 35 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016.
A previous planning application (21/00696/C) was submitted for the change of use of the premises from office use to a gaming/entertainment lounge. This application was approved with conditions. The case officer's report concluded:
"Overall, it is considered that the proposal would comply with the land use designations of the Local Plan, will preserve the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and will not result in any unacceptable amenity impacts on the town centre location or neighbouring uses. The application is therefore considered to be acceptable, complying with General Policy 2 and Environment Policy 35 of the IOMSP, the principles of Planning Policy Statement 1/01 and the Ramsey Local Plan."
This approval was not implemented, and as such, the extant use of the building remains as an office. The previous approval demonstrates that a change of use can be accommodated without detriment to the character of the Conservation Area.
"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:*
The proposal satisfies these criteria as it reuses an existing building with no external alterations, is in an accessible town centre location, and provides a community service that contributes positively to public health.
"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."
The proposal preserves the character of the Conservation Area as no external modifications are proposed, and the change of use aligns with the mix of professional services typically found in town centres.
The site falls within the 'Town Centre - Mixed Use' designation in the Ramsey Local Plan, where there is a general presumption in favour of professional and healthcare services. The plan encourages the reuse of vacant premises to promote town centre vitality, which aligns with this proposal.
The proposed private healthcare clinic, Clinic Savoir, will offer specialist preventative and diagnostic healthcare services to support the health and well-being of the community.
A key aspect of the clinic's mission is its commitment to accessibility and innovation. The applicant plans to collaborate with charities to provide pro bono services for individuals who cannot afford private care, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is available to everyone on the Isle of Man, not just those in the north.
In a first for the Isle of Man, the clinic will introduce mole mapping with AI surveillance for skin cancer detection. This cutting-edge technology will enhance early diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes, making advanced skin cancer screening more accessible to local patients.
Furthermore, Clinic Savoir will offer private cancer services in partnership with Clatterbridge, bringing specialist oncological care closer to patients on the island.
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This application seeks permission for the change of use of 2/4 Peel Street, Ramsey from an office to a private healthcare clinic. The proposed development is compliant with General Policy 2 and Environment Policy 35 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016, as well as the Ramsey Local Plan.
The proposal will:
For these reasons, it is respectfully requested that planning permission be granted.
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