Planning Statement

Department Of Infrastructure

HIGHWAY SERVICES DIVISION

Temporary Access Road Linking Ballasalla Bypass with Ballahick Road

- Planning Statement Of Case -

Document Number: HW3936/PA/002

Author: Scott Duncan

Status: ISSUE

Document Revision Record

Approvals

This document requires the following approvals;

Version	Date	Author	Checked	Description
001	25/07/25	S Duncan	G Saunders	Initial Version
002	24/08/25	S Duncan	G Saunders	Site Plan added to Appendix C

Name	Signature	Title	Date of Issue	Version
Emily Curphey		Chief Officer	25/07/2025	1

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

CONTENTS

• Chapter 1 –Introduction

• 1.0 General
• 1.1 Background

• Chapter 2 - Justification

• 2.0 General
• 2.1 Limitations of Traditional Traffic Control
• 2.2 Proposed Traffic Management Strategy
• 2.3 Benefits of Temporary Access Road
• 2.4 Communication and Signage

• Chapter 3 - Construction Methodology and Phasing

• 3.0 Overview
• 3.1 Site Preparation and Construction
• 3.2 Construction Phases
• 3.3 Working Hours and Duration
• 3.4 Health, Safety and Environmental Management

• Chapter 4 –Stakeholder Engagement

• 4.0 Identification of Stakeholders
• 4.1 Engagement Strategy
• 4.2 Communication Methods
• 4.3 Feedback Integration

• Chapter 5 –Post Construction Reinstatement

• 5.0 Overview
• 5.1 Land Restoration
• 5.2 Final Inspections

• Chapter 6 –Conclusion 6.0 Summary Appendices Included in this document:

• Appendix A Diversion Route Plans
• Appendix B Construction Phasing Plans
• Appendix C Planning Drawings

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

• Chapter 1 –Introduction

• 1.0 General This document outlines the rationale and methodology for implementing a temporary access road to facilitate the planned improvement works at Balthane Junction.

The proposal aims to ensure the efficient construction progress, minimise traffic disruption, maintain access to key infrastructure and reduce overall project duration.

• 1.1 Background Balthane Junction is a critical component of the Islands transport infrastructure, providing a key connection between the A5, Balthane Road and the Ballasalla Bypass. It is located on the principle arterial route connecting the South of the island to Douglas and serves as a vital access point for both commuter and commercial traffic.

The surrounding area includes a limited number of residential properties, with the majority of housing located within Ballasalla village. The junction also serves the Balthane Industrial Estate, a growing hub of mixed light and heavy commercial activity. In addition, it provides access to Turkeyland Quarry and key infrastructure associated with the Isle of Man Airport.

The improvement works at Balthane Junction were approved under Planning Application 22/00567/B. This current application seeks permission to construct a temporary access road to connect the Ballasalla Bypass with Balthane Industrial Estate via Ballahick Road. The temporary road is intended to maintain access and operational continuity during the construction phase of the junction upgrade.

• Chapter 2 –Justification

• 2.0 General The construction of the Balthane Junction scheme presents significant traffic management challenges due to its location on a key arterial route serving the south of the island, the airport and its proximity to both residential and commercial areas. Effective traffic management is therefore essential to ensure public safety, maintain access and minimise disruption.
• 2.1 Limitations of Traditional Traffic Control Managing traffic through a three-way signal-controlled system at the junction would result in significant delays, especially during peak hours. This would lead to significant queuing on the A5 and surrounding roads, causing inconvenience to road users, increasing safety risks, and reducing the efficiency of construction operations.

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

This concern is supported by previous experience during the construction of the northern bypass roundabout, which was managed under a simpler twoway temporary signal system. Despite the less complex setup, it still caused major disruption. The Department received numerous complaints, including reports of missed flights due to prolonged delays and negative impacts on bus schedules.

• 2.2 Proposed Traffic Management Strategy The proposed traffic management strategy utilises the Ballasalla Bypass and Ballahick Road to maintain access to the Balthane Industrial Estate during the Balthane Junction improvement works.

A temporary access road will allow vehicles to bypass the construction site, supporting a one-way traffic system on the A5 that enhances safety by separating construction activities from public traffic. This approach also helps maintain uninterrupted flow on the A5, reducing congestion and associated risks.

The one-way system will operate in a northerly direction, enabling the junction to be constructed in two phases:

• Phase 1: Balthane Road will be closed to all traffic, except for access to residential properties. Access to the industrial estate will be maintained via the temporary access road from the Bypass to Ballahick Road. Traffic will be reduced to a one-way northbound flow, running on the existing northbound lane. Southbound traffic will be diverted via Cross Four Ways to Castletown. See Appendix A for details of the proposed diversions route.
• Phase 2: Balthane Road will remain closed, except for access to residential properties. Traffic will continue to flow one-way northbound but will now switch to the newly constructed east side of the roundabout and the bypass. The A5 will be completely closed between the level crossing and the new roundabout. Access to the industrial estate will be maintained via the temporary access road. Southbound traffic will continue to use the diversion via Cross Four Ways to Castletown. See Appendix A for details of the proposed diversions route.

• 2.3 Benefits of the Temporary Access Road The proposed temporary access road will provide a critical diversion route, allowing vehicles to bypass the construction site while maintaining access to the Balthane Industrial Estate.

This measure supports a one-way traffic system along the A5, significantly enhancing safety by physically separating construction activities from the travelling public.

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

The phased construction sequencing enables efficient infrastructure delivery. Drainage works can be constructed from the outfall back, ensuring a continuous outlet throughout the project. Additionally, the surface course can be laid during each phase, eliminating the need for a full junction closure for the final surfacing.

By removing the requirement for active traffic control during construction, the temporary access road will substantially reduce delays and congestion across the highway network. This approach ensures smoother traffic flow and minimises disruption to local businesses and road users.

• 2.4 Communication and Signage A comprehensive traffic management plan will be implemented throughout the course of the works. This will include clear signage, public information campaigns and coordination with stakeholders to ensure that road users are well-informed and able to navigate the area safely and efficiently.

Chapter 3 –Construction Methodology and Phasing

• 3.0 Overview This section outlines the proposed methodology and phasing for the construction of the temporary access road and associated works at Balthane Junction. The approach is designed to ensure minimal disruption to traffic, maintain safety, and support the timely delivery of the overall junction improvement scheme.

• 3.1 Site Preparation and Construction Initial site preparation will involve vegetation clearance, ground levelling, and the protection of existing utilities to ensure a safe and stable foundation for construction activities.

The temporary access road has been specifically designed to accommodate the projected traffic volumes accessing the Balthane Industrial Estate. It features a 200mm thick asphalt pavement, engineered to accommodate up to 10 million standard axles (msa), which is consistent with heavy-duty road design standards. This ensures long-term durability and performance under industrial traffic conditions. See Appendix C for proposed construction drawings.

• 3.2 Construction Phases The construction works will be delivered in the following phases:

• • Phase A: Establishment of the site compound and construction of the temporary access road.
• • Phase B: Implementation of the Phase 1 traffic management measures and diversion routes.
• • Phase C: Execution of the Phase 1 Balthane Junction upgrade works. See Appendix B for details of the proposed construction phasing.

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

• • Phase D: Implementation of the Phase 2 traffic management measures and diversion routes.
• • Phase E: Execution of the Phase 2 Balthane Junction upgrade works. See Appendix B for details of the proposed construction phasing.
• • Phase F: Removal of the temporary access road and reinstatement of the site.

• 3.3 Working Hours and Duration Construction activities are expected to take place between 07:00 and 19:00, Monday to Saturday. The duration of each phase will be confirmed in the detailed construction programme, with the overall project expected to be completed within a timeframe of 6-8 months.
• 3.4 Health, Safety and Environmental Management All works will be carried out in accordance with relevant Health and Safety Regulations. Site safety protocols will be enforced to protect workers and the public. Environmental management measures will include noise and dust control, waste segregation, and recycling where possible.

It is noted that the planning application for the Ballasalla Bypass, which was approved under PA 19/00137/B, included an environmental impact assessment which assessed the change in traffic levels, noise and ecological impact for the site.

Chapter 4 –Stakeholder Engagement

• 4.0 Identification of Stakeholders Key stakeholders identified for this project include local residents, businesses within the Balthane Industrial Estate, Isle of Man Airport, Malew Parish Commissioners, emergency services, and Bus Vannin. These groups are directly or indirectly affected by the construction activities and traffic management measures.
• 4.1 Engagement Strategy The engagement strategy is designed to ensure that all stakeholders are informed, consulted, and given the opportunity to provide input throughout the planning and construction phases. The strategy focuses on transparency, early notification, and ongoing dialogue to build trust and cooperation.
• 4.2 Communication Methods A variety of communication methods will be employed to reach stakeholders effectively throughout the course of the works. These include public notices, local media, email updates, and updates via the Department of Infrastructure website. Signage will also be placed in strategic locations to inform road users of upcoming changes.

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

• 4.3 Feedback Integration Feedback received from stakeholders will be documented and reviewed regularly. Where feasible, suggestions and concerns will be incorporated into the traffic management plan and construction methodology. A dedicated contact point will be established to facilitate two-way communication throughout the project.

• Chapter 5 –Post Construction Reinstatement

5.0 Overview Following the completion of the Balthane Junction improvement works, all temporary infrastructure associated with the construction phase will be removed. This includes the temporary access road, signage, and any temporary fencing or barriers.

• 5.1 Land Restoration The land previously occupied by the temporary access road will be reinstated to its original condition. This will involve the removal of road materials, regrading of the surface, fencing reinstatement and restoration of topsoil where necessary.
• 5.2 Final Inspections A final inspection will be carried out by the relevant authorities to ensure that all reinstatement works have been completed to the required standards. Any deficiencies identified during the inspection will be addressed promptly.

• Chapter 6 –Conclusion

• 6.0 Summary The proposed temporary access road and associated traffic management strategy are essential to support the improvement works at Balthane Junction. The preferred approach ensures minimal disruption, maintains access to critical infrastructure, and enables efficient construction sequencing.

The project is expected to deliver long-term benefits to the local transport network and community. Approval of this application will facilitate timely and coordinated delivery of the junction upgrade.

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

APPENDIX A –DIVERSION ROUTE PLANS (PHASE 1)

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

APPENDIX A –DIVERSION ROUTE PLANS (PHASE 2)

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

Appendix B –Construction Phase Plans (Phase 1)

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road Planning Statement of Case

Appendix B –Construction Phase Plans (Phase 2)

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Planning Statement of Case

Appendix C –Planning Drawings

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Planning Statement of Case

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Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Planning Statement of Case

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Date	Date	Time
RENAULT

Information
Refining services
See Insights - Information needed
Engineering Services - Design
Engineering Services - Construction
and Control Services
Engineering Services - Maintenance
Efforts
Other
Bathune Junction Improvement
Sites
Temporary Access Road Plan and Sections
Line No. (S)	Line	Long (km)
Temporary (S)	Line	No Change
TOTAL	TOTAL	1
DETAIL: 09:56	PH	1

Department of Infrastructure July 2025 Temporary Access Road ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Planning Statement of Case

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