Isle of Man Government – Seeking views on reforms to the planning process

People are being asked to comment on the latest proposals to simplify the Isle of Man’s planning system and make it more user-friendly.

The consultation invites public feedback on plans to improve planning processes for property owners and enhance the protection of the island’s built heritage.

It includes a definition of a development order which sets out the most common modifications to a property that do or do not require planning approval. Licensed development, currently underway.

The new proposals will also update the Registered Building Regulations to comply with the new process for applying for planning approval, which comes into effect next month.

Environment, Food and Farming Minister Clare Barber MHK said:

“These changes will ensure the process is clear, easy to understand and effective, creating an attractive place to live, protecting the environment and supporting continued economic growth.”

If supported, the updates will help the department implement changes to the Town and Country Planning Act, a bill currently before the House of Representatives.

Minister Barber added:

“There is a lot of planning going on at the moment and these positive changes will mean people can go straight to making a proposal without the need for a planning application, saving time and money.”

These changes are Built Environment Reform Programme Commit to ensuring applications are detailed and accurate, establishing an appropriate appeals system, and increasing the number of small-scale/routine activities that can be carried out without a planning application.

The 12-week consultation is available at the Government Advice Centre.