EP33

Environment Policy 33

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 evidence 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.