28 August 2026
PO Box 986 Douglas Isle of Man IM99 2TB
Isle of Man News

Statue Plans Seek to Address Wildlife Concerns

Plans have been submitted to address concerns about local wildlife due to the proposed illuminated King Orry statue near Tynwald Hill.

Proposals were submitted in the name of the now former President of Tynwald Laurence Skelly.

Lighting around the statue must adhere to Bat Conservation Trust guidelines to protect the local bat population. These recommend a ‘”colour temperature” of 2700 Kelvin or less which produces a “warmer” orange light.

The 3000 Kelvin lighting in the plans produces a “colder” and more blue colour, which could attract insects and disturb the local bat population.

However, applicants argue that the lighting will be tightly focused and pointed towards the statue itself rather than the surrounding area. A timer will be in place switching lighting off during periods of peak bat activity

The application also cites research showing that 3000 Kelvin can be suitable for bats, noting that surrounding lighting also matches this temperature.

The plans submitted aim to satisfy one of five conditions stipulated before the project can begin development.

An appeal against the planning approval granted to the scheme was dismissed earlier this year.

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