Onchan MHK Rob Callister has hit back at social media criticism over the Planning Committee’s decision to refuse a temporary car park at the Summerland site.
The application was rejected yesterday based on five planning reasons, including conflicts with Council of Ministers policy and the Area Plan for the East.
Mr Callister, who chairs the committee, said: “I am disappointed that a former DOI Minister has chosen to criticise, via social media, the Planning Committee’s decision to refuse the application for a temporary car park at the Summerland site.”
He thanked Rushen MHK Michelle Haywood for acknowledging the application was initiated during her time at the Department of Infrastructure.
The proposal was recommended for refusal by professional planning officers. Further objections included adverse visual impact contrary to the Town and Country Planning Act 1999 and concerns the development would undermine future redevelopment of the Summerland site.
Mr Callister added: “Planning decisions are rarely straightforward, but it is disappointing to see criticism of an independent Planning Committee for correctly applying legislation, adopted plans, and established policy.”
He urged critics to consider whether applications comply with existing law and policy before they are submitted.
“The Planning Committee acted properly, lawfully, and fully in line with its statutory responsibilities,” he said.