On 18th April 2024, Lamara Craine, on behalf of the Isle of Man Green Party, penned a resolute objection letter to Jennifer Chance, Director of Planning & Building Control at the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA), regarding the proposed Planning Application (Ref: 22/00679/B) for residential, commercial, and retail development, as well as a public house, on land at Poyll Dooey Fields and Part Fields.
In the comprehensive letter, the Isle of Man Green Party underscores significant concerns raised by the Planning Committee's refusal of the application on multiple grounds (2200679B DEC Decision Notice.pdf). These include insufficient survey data and ecological protection measures, unconvincing flood mitigation measures, and inadequate design and construction details for essential infrastructure such as the proposed spine road.
Furthermore, the objection letter draws attention to the collective efforts of the campaigners for Save Poyll Dooey, and over two thousand signatories of the 'Prevent Urban Development in Poyll Dooey' petition in advocating for the preservation of this cherished natural landscape.
Highlighting the Isle of Man's designation as a UNESCO Biosphere, the objection letter emphasizes the importance of sustainable development in maintaining the delicate balance between economic growth, environmental preservation, and societal well-being. It underscores the intrinsic value of Poyll Dooey Fields and Part Fields as vital components of the island's natural and cultural heritage, accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Lamara Craine's letter meticulously outlines how the proposed development contradicts key government strategies and legislation, including the Active Travel Strategy, Children’s Weight Management Strategy, and the commitment to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2050. It also challenges the compatibility of the development with the Isle of Man's Biodiversity Strategy and the Area Plan for the North and West, emphasizing the adverse impact on community well-being, environmental sustainability, and the protection of natural habitats.
In a passionate plea to decision-makers, Craine urges the Planning Inspector and relevant authorities to prioritise sustainable development practices that uphold the integrity of the environment and safeguard the interests of future generations.
The letter can be found on the Green Party website here: and any response received will be published on out website at www.greenparty.im.