The fate of the long-vacant Lord Street bus station site should become clearer today as the planning committee meets to discuss the multi-million development.
The application (25/90516/B) from Lord Street Development SPV Ltd includes a 12-storey apartment block, which would be the tallest building in Douglas, along with a multiscreen cinema, 85 flats, 12 commercial units and bus station.
The scheme moved a step closer earlier this month when the planning committee voted against the officer’s recommendation to refuse the application. with chairman Rob Callister MHK’s casting vote secured a four-three split against refusal.
Review Mechanism
The central issue remains the developer’s controversial “review mechanism” for a commuted sum of approximately £1.574m in lieu of affordable housing and public open space.
Under the proposal, payment would only be triggered if the development achieves a 17.5% return.
The planning officer continues to recommend refusal, though it has been conceded the mechanism could be acceptable for this specific brownfield site given its “significant public benefit”.
The site could benefit from millions in taxpayer support if the plans go ahead under the