POACHERS POCKET
Over the years there have been 21 different development proposals for this site, previously all the planning applications have rightly been refused. The four year tortuous path of the present approval clearly demonstrates the current failures to honour previous ‘land designation’ and promises. We quote the decision of one previous Appeal Inspector in his refusal for development on the Poachers Pocket.
‘ The site comprised part of an open green area that was an attractive, natural part of the physical and visual context of the Silverburn River that was consistent with zoning the land as part of the residential area, rather than for residential development’
That the planners should nevertheless now allow such a last green space in the village centre to be built is abhorrent. When this was coupled with the potential flooding issue, it meant that we had to oppose this development vigorously.
The situation has thereafter been exacerbated by the misconstruing, twisting, or ignoring of the Inspectors ‘conditions’ – conditions that he had specifically set which would have to be met before the development could proceed.
After a very long period which involved hearings etc still without a result either way, we have now got to the stage that our MHK has successfully got a select committee set up to investigate the planning department of DOLGE’s handling of the whole farce.
However in the meantime the site has been massacred out of all recognition to both the original and the Inspectors approved plans. Furthermore, it would seem that the construction levels of the houses have been raised beyond any agreed plan, and all without any consultation with interested parties, also included in this is the sad destruction of a large number of trees.
All in all, the whole situation has seen deficiencies in the responsibilities of the planning department, the DOT, and the Forestry Board. Our fight is not finished, not only for ‘Poacher Pocket’ but also for a’ root and branch’ overhaul of the planning system; we shall have to wait for the Select Committee whose remit now includes all planning within the Isle of Man.