21 May 2014 · Delegated
6a, The Parade, Castletown, Isle Of Man, IM9 1lg
Permission was granted to convert the dwellings at Balcony House, 6 and 6A The Parade, Castletown, into offices, along with the installation of a ramped access. The application was decided by the Department of Infrastructure on a delegated basis in May 2014. The buildings are registered structures in the heart of Castletown, attached to neighbouring properties on either side. They had previously been converted to residential use under earlier planning permissions. During the application process, the description was amended to include details of the ramped access, which was designed with a gradient of around 4 degrees. Approval was granted subject to one condition, and the officer's recommendation was also in favour of the proposal.
The Department of Infrastructure approved the application, subject to one condition. The officer also recommended approval. The description was amended during the process to include details of a ramped access with a gradient of around 4 degrees, providing step-free entry to the building.
Environment Policy 33
The change of use of Registered Buildings will only be permitted if the proposed use is appropriate and any alterations associated with the change are not detrimental to its character
Environment Policy 33: The change of use of Registered Buildings will only be permitted if the proposed use is appropriate and any alterations associated with the change are not detrimental to its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. 7.28 Traditional Building Materials 7.28.1 Traditional building materials can be classified as stone for walls , slates for roofs and softwood for window frames. Local materials help to form the character of settlements in the Island. For example, sandstone was a common building material in the development of much of the older parts of Peel and limestone was historically used in Castletown. Whilst the original sources of some materials are no longer operating, reclaimed material from old buildings is often available. Such re-use will be particularly encouraged where sites are to be redeveloped and there is evide nce of material on site which can be recycled and reused. It will, however, not be appropriate to demolish historic buildings merely to reclaim usable materials. Another important aspect when attempting to retain the historic building stock is the use of the most appropriate mortar; common across the Island's built environment has been the use of lime-based mortar and washes.
Mixed Use Proposal 4
presumption in favour of the retention of existing residential uses
Condition 1
The development hereby approved shall be begun before the expiration of four years from the date of this decision notice.