25 January 2022 · Delegated
40, Ballaquark, Douglas, Isle Of Man, IM2 2et
This retrospective application sought permission for timber decking erected on the front elevation of 40 Ballaquark, Douglas, a single-storey semi-detached dwelling on the corner of a staggered junction. The existing dwelling features a cross-pitched roof, a masonry front elevation, and a concrete staircase leading to the front door. The application was refused on 25 January 2022. The decision found that the timber decking, in terms of its design and finish, did not respect the character of the dwelling or its surroundings. The refusal was based on the decking's failure to comply with the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016 and the Residential Design Guide 2021, which set out standards for residential design quality and compatibility with existing buildings and their context.
Permission was refused because the timber decking added to the front of the dwelling was considered unsuitable in terms of its design and finish. It was judged not to respect the character of the existing dwelling or its surroundings, and did not meet the standards set out in the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016 and the Residential Design Guide 2021. The application was decided by a Principal Planner under delegated authority.
Refusal Reasons
Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016
fails to comply with General Policy 2 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016
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
