19 June 2025 · Delegated
84, Highfield Crescent, Onchan, Isle Of Man, IM3 3bs
This retrospective application sought permission for the removal of two chimney stacks at a detached bungalow on a corner plot at the junction of Highfield Crescent and Seafield Crescent, Onchan. The application was decided on 19 June 2025 and was permitted. The main planning consideration was whether the removal of the chimney stacks harmed the character and appearance of the property and the wider street scene. The officer noted that the surrounding area is made up largely of detached bungalows and chalet-style dwellings, and that many properties in the vicinity do not have chimneys. The work was considered acceptable because the replacement roof and ridge tiles matched the existing materials and the finish was neat, meaning the alterations did not detract from the appearance of the property or its surroundings.
The application was approved on a delegated basis. The key planning consideration was the effect of removing the two chimney stacks on the character and appearance of the property and the surrounding area. The officer found the work acceptable, noting that many properties in the street do not have chimneys and that the replacement roof and ridge tiles were neatly finished and matched the existing materials.
protection of local character and the environment
complies with
protection of local character and the environment
complies with
Strategic Policy 5: New development, including individual buildings, should be designed so as to make a positive contribution to the environment of the Island. In appropriate cases the Department will require planning applications to be supported by a Design Statement which will be required to take account of the Strategic Aim and Policies. 4.4 Economy 4.4.1 The Spatial Strategy identifies the Major Employment Areas around the Island. While the majority of business and employment is focused around the Douglas Metropolitan Area, there are other major employment areas at Castletown, the Airport/Freeport, Peel, Ramsey and Jurby. The Department considers the distribution of employment areas provides a spread of employment opportunities around the Island. While recognising the opportunities for small scale local employment within existing centres it is considered new employment should, in the main, be concentrated within existing settlements or those major employment areas referred to in the Island Spatial Strategy and illustrated on the Key Diagram. Existing Local and new Area Plans will provide detailed boundar ies for these areas. From time to time Government may judge it appropriate to offer financial incentives to encourage economic activity or investment in particular parts of the Island.
development in accordance with land use zoning
complies with
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
