Latest news with #GarffCommissioners
BBC News
7 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Garff Commissioners call for residents' offshore wind farm views
People living on the eastern coast of the Isle of Man have been urged to share their views on plans for an offshore wind farm with the local Mooir Vannin project would see 87 turbines built about 6-12 nautical miles (11.1km to 22.2km) off Commissioners is gathering the views of local residents about the potential visual and environmental impacts to "inform" its discussions with the firm and the government over the have been encouraged attend a public meeting on on the issue at the Laxey Men's Working Institute at 19:00 BST on 26 August., or submit written views beforehand. The meeting is set to be chaired by Captain of the Parish of Lonan Stephen local authority has said while it would not be expressing a view itself at this stage, feedback from residents would influence whether it supported or objected to the plans when formally submitted in from a consultation carried out by Orsted last summer saw the firm cut the proposed size of the project from 100 turbines to 87 and reduce its total area from 97 sq miles ( 253 sq km) to 81 sq miles (211 sq km). Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
New visitor hub at Laxey Wheel gets approval
Plans to demolish the existing entrance kiosk and replace it with a modern visitor hub at a Victorian water wheel have been approved. The larger visitor hub at the Laxey Wheel is set to be used to exhibit the history of the site and provide a sheltered space for groups of visitors. Planning committee member Peter Whiteway said the new hub would be "functional" and although it "could be prettier" it would serve the purpose needed. In its application, Manx National Heritage argued the current facility, which was designed for one person rather than the current three-person team, was "totally inadequate" and offered "cramped and cold" conditions. The existing kiosk also "offers a very poor visitor experience" as there was "no internal space" to provide information or for a retail area, rendering it "not fit for purpose". Built in 1854, the 72ft (22m) diameter wheel is the largest working waterwheel of its kind in the world. Known as the Lady Isabella, the Victorian wheel was originally used in mining. Recommending the plans for approval, the planning officer's report said the proposal would not impact the appearance of the conservation area, and a modern development could provide a "good distinction between new and old". In his submission to the committee, clerk of Garff Commissioners Martin Royle said some members of the local authority, which had objected to the proposals, had had difficulty with the design of the structure. But he said the development could lead to more people discovering the landmark. Last year, Manx National Heritage withdrew proposals for a visitor centre at the sire after backlash over its appearance. Key changes under the revised scheme were the colour and location of the building. Committee member Helen Hughes said she was "unsure about the design" although she understood staff needed more space. She said while it was an "improvement" on the original proposal it still looked like a portable cabin, but fellow committee member Adele Bettridge noted that there were no toilets within the facility. The committee was told Manx National Heritage said the lifespan of the facility would be 15 to 20 years. The plans were approved with six member in favour and one against. Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X. Views sought on Laxey Wheel visitor hub plans New Laxey Wheel plans to be shared after backlash Plans for new entrance hub at Laxey Wheel pulled Commissioners object to Laxey Wheel entrance plans Historian slams plans for new Laxey Wheel entrance Plans for new visitor entrance at Laxey Wheel Great Laxey Wheel turns again after two years Planninc Committee Agenda Planning Application Manx National Heritage
