Residents of Douglas are objecting to a planning application submitted by Douglas City Council.
The application proposes the development of a construction compound on a playing field located off Ballanard Road and Baldwin Road, Douglas.
Members of the community say that the “playing field is well-used by local residents and children as a recreation area and is an important open space in central Douglas”.
It is a registered tree area and supports a range of biodiversity, including mature trees, birds and bats.
Proposal
The proposed compound, which would be used for the refurbishment works on the Willaston estate, includes storage of building materials, delivery and collection of skips, and on-site mixing of construction materials.
Members of the community say “these construction activities will generate increased traffic movements, noise, dust and environmental disruption for an unspecified period, which, based on information from DCC and past timelines, is anticipated to last between five and ten years”.
Lack of Consultation & Transparency
Residents have raised concerns regarding the limited public consultation prior to the planning submission.
The Douglas Community Group says: “Only a few households on Ballanard Road and lower Manor Hotel Drive were contacted directly.
“Other properties adjoining the site, including vulnerable residents in the bungalows on Baldwin Road received no notification.
“Furthermore, the communication did not include projected timelines, a map or details regarding the scope and duration of disruption.
“No information has been provided about the extent of ecological or traffic impact surveys which have been undertaken prior to this site being selected.”
Community Response
A community spokesperson said: “We’re really worried about what this plan would mean for our green space and local wildlife.
“It feels like decisions are being made without proper input from the people who live here.
“We’re simply asking Douglas City Council to look at other options that won’t damage the environment or take away a place so many of us use and enjoy.
“Turning this field into a temporary compound for up to 10 years could mean some children miss out on using it altogether during their childhood.”
Residents are calling for the Planning Committee to give due consideration to the field’s value as an open space in an urban area including its ecological significance, its recreational value to the community, and the potential long-term consequences of approval.
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