Permission obtained to turn Westmoreland Road into 'village'

MDC says it accepts development 'is not for everyone'

Permission has been granted to redevelop Westmoreland Road in Douglas into a ‘village’.

The Manx Development Corporation gained approval for its application at today’s sitting of the planning committee (26 February).

Built on the idea of a ’20-minute neighbourhood’ the scheme will include a mix of property, ‘affordable housing’, public spaces and places to work.

The MDC says it will complement ‘the existing educational, health and recreational facilities already in the area’.

A spokesperson for the company said: “This is a very positive step toward the redevelopment of this area of the city.

“MDC commends the planning committee for embracing this urban, contemporary scheme and the innovative approach that it represents and would like to thank the planning authority and consultees for their guidance and hard work on the scheme.

“The design incorporates high-quality place making, an excellent level of sustainability, enriched community provision and enhanced connectivity.

“It is hoped that the scheme will create a ripple effect throughout the city that improves the quality of our built environment and infrastructure.”

The MDC adds that the location of Westmoreland Road makes it the ‘perfect opportunity’ to create an environment where daily active travel is a real possibility.

“MDC appreciates that this kind of development is not for everyone but it is becoming increasingly popular internationally and represents something unique for the Island.” - Manx Development Corporation

The Manx Development Corporation is an ‘arms-length’ commercial company of which the treasury minister is the nominated shareholder. 

It focuses on developing government owned and unoccupied, or previously developed sites, and supporting the transformation of urban and brownfield sites across the Island. 

The MDC adds that a ‘number of key processes’ will now have to be navigated ahead of any construction starting.