Planning Statement

Planning Statement

Change Of Use Into Permanent Accommodation

The purpose of this planning application is to change the use from 'holiday accommodation' 'permanent accommodation'.

The buildings consist of both single storey and double storey units formed in the shape of a quadrangle. These buildings were converted into tourist accommodation in 2006 with the units being made available for permanent occupancy for 6 months of the year.

There are 13 separate units from single bedroom to 3 bedroom, all having their own front door, kitchens, bathrooms and some en suite bedrooms. One of the units is presently used as a reception area, again with its own toilets, kitchen, storage area and office space which is now no longer needed and this will become the 13th residential unit. Some units have the benefit of a garden. All units have full fire detection systems, all as approved by Building Control. Each unit has its own oil tank, bin provision and separate electrical system with their own meters together with mains water, each having their own stop tap.

Presently there are 6 car parks near to the units with further car parking to the south behind Ballahowin Farm House but this park is designated for a future interpretation centre. In order to increase the car parking an existing dilapidated farm building is to be removed and within the footprint there will be 11 car parks with a further 11 car parks beyond and coupled with this there is an existing car park for three cars to the west, a further car park for disabled with 2 car parks behind Ballahowin Farm House and a further car park for disabled alongside the courtyard giving a total of 28 car parks of which 3 would be for disabled although this number can easily be increased. It is anticipated that there will be 3 EV charging points. Furthermore there will be provision for secure housing of 22 bicycles under cover.

In 2006 when the units were completed both owner/directors were in good health but now sadly this is not the situation. Some 10 years ago one of the directors developed significant health problems reducing her ability to manage the units and last year her husband had a significant health issue meaning that they are now unable to commit to running Ballahowin Courtyard for tourist use on a six month tourist and 6 month permanent usage.

It is understood that other schemes elsewhere on the island have seen farm buildings converted into permanent accommodation. Two notable examples are at Ballachurry, Port Erin and Abbeylands Estate off Schollag Road, Onchan.

All bookings for the 2022 season are honoured. The change of use will enable the building to be maintained to a good standard ensuring a long term future for the Courtyard.