A local community has created an opposition group to proposals to create 28 houses and shops next to Marown playing fields in Crosby.

JM Project Management is behind the scheme for fields at Ballaglonney Farm which are zoned for residential use. Permission is being sought to build three and four bedroom homes as well as retail space, a bus lay by and pelican crossing across the main Douglas to Peel road.

But local residents aren't happy and have formed Crosby Residents Against Development (CRAD) to fight the scheme.

One local resident Peter Quayle explained: 'The first I knew about this was when a small planning notice went up in Crosby a few weeks ago. It was on a telegraph pole opposite the bus stop.

'I was a little puzzled as normally developers talk to neighbours and local communities before doing this. The next day there was a meeting called at short notice in Crosby.'

He said the land was at the start of a green belt running to Greeba and on to Peel, adding: 'Most people I speak to are against the idea of building houses and shops right next to the local stream, playground, bowling green and football pitch.

'Several of the concerns are about traffic and the safety of pedestrians crossing the road. There are nearly 100 parking spaces in the plans for the estate. To create a new junction on the TT course at Crosby would increase the traffic levels in the village considerably.

'At peak times it would be difficult for cars to enter and leave the estate due to cars coming from Douglas and Peel. This would cause blockages on the main road which is one of the busiest on the island.'

CRAD is encouraging people to write to planners. The deadline for objections to be made is next Friday (August 14). Mr Quayle said a public meeting was being planned and local MHK Howard Quayle would be invited to attend.


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