An application to change the use of six holiday cottages in Maughold from tourist to residential accommodation has been turned down at appeal.

The cottages, currently owned by Mr and Mrs J McCracken, are at Ballacarmel in Ballure and were at the centre of a controversial planning dispute involving former President of Tynwald Sir Charles Kerruish, over 20 years ago.

Maughold Commissioners argued the cottages were not suitable for long term residential use and the roadways would be inadequate. The Department of Transport also objected on the grounds of increased traffic flow.

Concerns were also raised by the owners of the adjoining Ballure holiday homes over the shabby appearance of the properties and the lack of effort being made by the owners to market them as holiday accommodation.

In their appeal the McCrackens argued there was no demand for self-catering holiday cottages, but the properties could help address the need for private rental property on the Island.

However, independent inspector Neil Holt said there was no evidence of any efforts being made to market the properties as holiday accommodation and without clear evidence that such usage wasn't practical the appeal was dismissed.

Local Government and Environment Minister John Shimmin (pictured) said some of the cottages were already being used as permanent residences, in breach of planning control.

He has ordered that must stop, within three months.