Area Plan for the North and West could become operational by December

It's been adopted by the Cabinet Office and will go before Tynwald next month

The Area Plan for the North and West could come into operation before the end of the year, if approved by Tynwald.

It provides a planning framework which all applications for development will be assessed against.

The plan is a comprehensive document which aims to set out appropriate ways of managing and guiding development to meet social, environmental and economic needs.

That includes the zoning of land which could be turned into new homes.

It also lays out how existing settlements can be developed, which would guide any future regeneration of the Island's town and village centres.

For example, a comprehensive treatment area in Ramsey is included, which is hoped to support positive change in the town and a co-ordinated approach to regeneration.

Government says the plan sets the scene for the delivery of commitments outlined in the Climate Change Act 2021, ahead of a full review of strategic planning policy.

It follows a public inquiry held last year and a consultation on the proposed modifications earlier this year.

The final plan has now been adopted by the Cabinet Office and will be brought before Tynwald next month.

If it's supported by politicians, it will come into operation on 1 December 2025.

From then, any current, older local plans and remaining parts of the 1982 Development Plan would be replaced.

The Council of Ministers has also committed to producing a review of the public service, which will assess how services such as health, education, transport and utilities, can meet current and projected community needs in the north and west of the Island.

That will take place by 30 June 2026, if Tynwald agrees.