Marina Hotel redevelopment approved despite concerns

Derelict promenade hotel to be transformed into nine flats after planning committee backs regeneration scheme

A long-derelict landmark on Douglas promenade is set to be redeveloped into apartments after the planning committee approved two linked applications.

The proposals will see the former Marina Hotel converted into nine residential flats with extensions, bicycle storage and waste facilities.

Consent was also granted for selected demolition works, including the removal of an unsightly rear outrigger and box dormer, judged by planning officers to detract from the Douglas Promenade Conservation Area.

Planning Officer Lucy Kinrade recommended approval, noting the building has been out of tourist use for more than 20 years and is now in a dilapidated condition.

While policy usually favours retaining hotels within the designated mixed-use zone, she said returning the property to tourist use was unviable, and that regeneration aligned with strategic policies prioritising reuse of existing buildings.

Her report highlighted that the design preserved ‘historic sash windows’ and decorative features while improving the frontage, with new flood resilience measures required due to the high-risk location.

Cycle storage will be provided, though no on-site parking is included given the central location and nearby public transport.

A financial viability review concluded the scheme’s profit margins fell below the minimum policy benchmark, leading officers to recommend flexibility on affordable housing contributions.

A supporter of the scheme told the committee the project offered a “rare chance to restore and revitalise a key site”, pointing out that Visit Isle of Man had raised no objections despite the loss of hotel use.

Members of the committee voiced several concerns including objection to the inclusion of basement living space in a flood-risk area, describing it as “asking for trouble”.

Meanwhile, Mr Skelton and Miss Betteridge questioned the decision to waive affordable housing payments, with Miss Betteridge warning that if such sums were removed, developers should not later receive any additional government support.

Mr Young argued the benefit of restoring the long-vacant building outweighed the risks, describing it as the best scheme to come forward for the site. Mr Whiteway noted that while he shared reservations about the basement, the wider public benefit justified moving ahead.

Both applications were ultimately approved, meaning the owners now have full permission to redevelop the Marina Hotel.