Douglas Council has objected to plans for a new Food Warehouse by Iceland opening in Braddan.
The Council says the development of the store on land at Spring Valley “undermines important planning policies designed to protect the economic health of town and city centres”.
Through its Environmental Services Committee, the local authority has lodged an objection to a planning application for a new retail unit on the trading estate on Cooil Road.
Not Against Iceland
Councillors emphasise they do not oppose the principle of an Iceland outlet opening in the area but believe the proposed location is unsuitable, as the site is designated for industrial use in the island’s Area Plan.
The Council says “the plan also conflicts with the Isle of Man Strategic Plan Business Policy which restricts retail development to established town and village centres – aside from neighbourhood shops in large residential areas”.
Retail use on industrial land is only permitted where the goods could not reasonably be sold in a town centre and where the development would not undermine the vitality or viability of existing centres.
Wrong Place
Councillor Falk Horning, chair of the Environmental Services Committee, said: “Douglas City Council fully supports new retail opportunities in our community but they must be in the right place.
“We are committed to encouraging high-quality developments that enhance the places where we live and work and we recognise the benefits an Iceland store could bring to our retail offering.
“However, it is essential that new developments align with the Island’s planning framework. If more people buy their food from retailers located in industrial areas, footfall in our town and city centres will drop.
“Many people combine their weekly food shopping in the city with a visit to other shops. Therefore, an Iceland in an industrial area would impact not only food retailers in the city but also decrease viability of other shops.”
