Building on brownfield sites has been given new focus in the latest draft of the area plan for the north and west (APNW).
However, highly controversial plans to zone Greenfield sites around Peel for development remain.
The government has announced a series of amendments following a public inquiry held in July 2024.
These changes aim to address feedback from residents, stakeholders, and officials to ensure the plan meets the region’s housing, infrastructure, and environmental needs.
Key Housing Revisions
The updated plan includes recalculated housing allocations to reflect population demands while prioritizing sustainability and environmental protection.
Emphasis has been placed on using brownfield sites, in line with national strategies that aim to reduce reliance on greenfield development. The inquiry supported these measures, alongside ensuring future developments align with biodiversity and sustainability goals.
Despite this, development of greenfield sites on the outskirts of Peel is still proposed, running from Douglas Road to the Ramsey road.
To promote affordable housing, new policies were also introduced to cater to diverse community needs, including eldercare provisions. The inspector’s report highlighted the importance of balancing housing delivery with maintaining the character of the North and West regions.
Infrastructure Improvements Highlighted
Infrastructure was another key focus of the inquiry, with concerns raised about the readiness of utilities and transport systems to support proposed developments. Notable changes include:
- Peel Sewage Treatment Works: The plan now prioritizes the construction of a long-delayed regional sewage treatment facility, essential to support new housing developments in Peel.
- Traffic Management: Updates to the plan include proposals for traffic impact assessments at key junctions, including Parliament Square in Ramsey, to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow.
The inspector emphasized the need for further collaboration between government departments to address long-term infrastructure demands.
Environmental and Climate Resilience Measures
The APNW has been revised to better align with the Isle of Man’s Climate Change Act 2021 and international commitments as a UNESCO Biosphere. Key environmental updates include:
- Flood Risk and Drainage: Revised flood maps incorporate updated climate change data, applying allowances for rising sea levels and heavier rainfall.
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): A new requirement for BNG was introduced, ensuring developments actively improve local ecosystems.
- Renewable Energy Initiatives: The plan supports trial solar energy sites at Balladoole and Sulby as part of the island’s transition to low-carbon energy.
These changes are designed to balance sustainable development with preserving the island’s unique environmental character.
Next Steps
The revised plan will have to go to Tynwald for approval and if implemented, the APNW will replace existing local development plans and provide a framework for managing growth in the North and West.
A final round of public consultation will be conducted to ensure transparency and community input before the plan’s adoption.
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