ANYONE wishing to camp at Sulby Claddagh campsite this summer will need a permit.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is introducing the permit system to "enable better control of overnight camping".
The move follows what the department called "strong public support" after recent public consultations.
The new permit, which is free this year, will allow people to camp overnight between May 1 and September 30 (plus the Easter weekend).
DEFA Minister John Shimmin MHK said: "The department has endeavoured to improve the management of the Claddagh in recent years and asks the local community to respect and support this latest initiative.
"This season we shall be working closely again with the Isle of Man Constabulary and G4S Security to enforce the byelaws governing the use of the site.
"Sulby Claddagh is a very special place where people have enjoyed open-air recreation for many decades. We hope that these ongoing management improvements will help to protect it for the benefit of generations to come."
Campers are encouraged to plan ahead and obtain a permit well in advance of their visits as they will not normally be issued on site.
Each permit allows the holder to pitch a tent, campervan, caravan or trailer tent for up to 14 nights.
Camping permits can be obtained in person from the department's headquarters in St Johns, between 9am and 5pm on weekdays, or by post. Photo identification must be produced with each application made and permits will only be issued to those over 18.
The department has also arranged two permit days at its offices in St Johns on Wednesday, April 6, from 9am to 1pm and Monday, April 12, from 1pm to 4pm, when dedicated staff will be on hand to answer questions.
Forestry staff will also be available to issue permits and answer queries from the offices of Lezayre Parish Commissioners at the Sulby Community Hall in Sulby on Saturday, April 9, between 12pm and 3pm.
For more information or to request a permit application form please contact the Forestry, Amenity and Lands Directorate on 01624 801263 or e-mail forestry@gov.im.
What do you think? Is this a good move or will this put you off using this campsite? Let us know by leaving a comment below:
