Jennifer Chance has been appointed Director of Planning and Building Control, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) has announced.

Chartered town planner Miss Chance joined the Isle of Man Government in 2009 as Head of Development Management.

She has been acting Director of Planning and Building Control for the past eight months.

She will head a 28-strong team delivering a service that meets Government’s strategic objectives.

She will advise Tynwald’s Environment and Infrastructure Review Committee and other political and cross-department groups.

Tim Baker MHK, Member of DEFA responsible for planning and building control, said: ‘The two areas impact on the Island socially, economically and environmentally.

‘We aim to offer a high quality service to customers that ultimately enhances the Isle of Man.

‘With an extensive planning and public sector background, both with the Isle of Man Government and in the UK, Miss Chance brings to the role invaluable practical and professional experience in both areas of work.’

Miss Chance said: ‘Planning plays a crucial role in supporting growth in a sustainable manner.  We are keen to ensure we engage with applicants to make positive decisions in a quick and consistent manner to allow developers to plan for the future.’

As endorsed by Tynwald in July, Government is conducting a high level review of planning ‘to identify a system which has the ability to respond in a timely manner to the evolving needs of the Island while continuing to provide reassurance that the system is fair, transparent and free from abuse’.

Photo - Jennifer Chance.