An independent inspector has supported the key recommendations outlined in the Draft Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015.

The inspector’s report, which takes into account evidence submitted at the recent public inquiry, has today (Wednesday 25 November 2015) been published by the Department of Infrastructure. It is available to view on the Government website.

The Draft Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015 – Towards a Sustainable Island sets out general policies for the development and use of land in the Isle of Man and identifies the Island’s long-term housing needs. It updates the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2007 and reflects the latest population projections and their likely impact on future housing requirements and the strategic highway network.

The Draft Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015 applies to the 15-year period between 2011 and 2026 and recommends the construction of an additional 5,100 houses, with a regional breakdown of – North 770, South 1,120, East 2,440 and West 770.

It should be noted that any properties built or approved since 2011 are already contributing towards the delivery of the 5,100 houses required up to 2026.

The inspector’s report is supportive of the main recommendations contained in the Draft Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2015, describing the additional housing requirement and approach to housing supply as ‘sound’.

The next stage will be to move forward with the process of adopting the Draft Plan before it is submitted for Tynwald approval.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘The Draft Strategic Plan is key to delivering a robust planning policy framework for the Isle of Man. It will allow us to prepare the Isle of Man for future changes in population and to anticipate housing requirements and infrastructure needs. The independent inspector is supportive of the content of the Draft Plan and the approach taken for the review. There are no recommendations that direct the Department to gather further evidence or conduct additional studies, so work will now focus on taking the Plan to Tynwald early in the New Year.’

He added: ‘The Department will also take on board the inspector’s comments that every effort should be made to expedite future work in relation to Area Plans, including proposals concerning Castletown. It is very clear that the release of further land for housing is essential for Castletown to continue as a vibrant and sustainable place for its people, so the inspector’s comments are particularly welcome.’