Strategic Plan to be Reviewed

The gov has announced a full review of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016.

No, you’re not alone if you haven’t heard of it.

The Strategic Plan sets out the general policies for the development of and use of land across the island. It is a key document when preparing Area Plans and other policy documents. It also plays a pivotal role in the determination of planning applications.

It covers a range of overarching policies, such as: the location and distribution of future development, climate change requirements, renewable energy generation, town centres, recreational and open space, and employment land and also sets the broad planning framework for housing – including location, design, layout, supporting infrastructure requirements and tackling the issues associated with satisfying the island’s housing needs.

Minister for the Cabinet Office Kate Lord-Brennan said: ‘The Strategic Plan is the backbone of planning policy. Influencing development policies with this document will ensure they are suitable for the entire island, encompassing both built and natural environments.

‘This is a significant step forward for planning in the Isle of Man, and provides an opportunity for us to better reflect our core strategic objectives, and meet the goals and aspirations of Our Island Plan and the Economic Strategy.’

As part of this process, the Cabinet Office has launched the Preliminary Publicity, which is the first statutory step in the preparation of a Development Plan and sets out the issues which the Draft Plan will deal with. It comprises a main consultation document and supporting evidence papers.

One such paper, The Island Spatial Strategy (ISS), has strategic significance and sits at the very heart of the Strategic Plan. Simply put, the ISS embodies the approach to attain a sustainable pattern of development across the island.

The consultation period will commence today (21 July 2023) and run until 29 September. The consultation can be completed online at www.consult.gov.im. Alternatively, written comments can be emailed to newstrategicplan.co@gov.im or by post to Planning Policy, Cabinet Office, 3rd Floor, Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3PN.