The Council of Ministers has appointed Chris Robertshaw MHK to the position of chairman of the Planning Committee.

Mr Robertshaw takes over in the role from David Evans, who will continue to serve as a member of the Committee.

The change coincides with the transfer of responsibility for the operation of the planning system from the Department of Infrastructure to the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. DEFA Minister Richard Ronan MHK has signed fresh delegations giving the Committee powers to function under the auspices of his Department.

Although he is joining the Planning Committee, Mr Robertshaw is not becoming a member of the Department. Mr Robertshaw resigned as Minister for Policy and Reform in February this year, and had previously served as Minister for Social Care.

Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK commented: ‘As someone with senior and recent Ministerial experience, Chris Robertshaw has an understanding of Government’s national priorities which should support the Planning Committee in guiding the Island’s development.

‘Mr Robertshaw joins a Committee which has been working hard to carry out its responsibilities, and in particular I would like to thank David Evans for his dedicated and diligent service as chairman since July 2014.’

The Chief Minister added: ‘Planning has a key role to play in continuing to support economic growth, whilst improving the quality of life in the Isle of Man, by promoting the delivery of high quality development on the ground which in turn creates vibrant and liveable places, which appeal to entrepreneurs and business and contribute to a more economically, socially and environmentally sustainable society.’

Mr Robertshaw said: ‘I would like to reiterate the Chief Minister’s appreciation of David Evans and the Planning Committee. I have a particular interest in the built environment and in economic growth, and I am looking forward to working with the Committee.’