Plans to turn 'underused space' in central Douglas into wellness retreat

Application lodged for 'The Steam Yard' on Lord Street site

A planning application has been submitted seeking to transform a public space in central Douglas into a 'wellness retreat'.

The area of land, known as The Snake Pit, sits between Lord Street and Fort Street adjacent to the city's bus interchange.

If successful, the venue would be known as The Steam Yard.

It would include a sauna and several ice baths, as well showers, changing facilities, a welcome area and a hot drink and food station.

Regarding the area, the applicants say the triangular area - which featured a sunken garden and benches - has been 'well maintained but has not benefitted from substantive investment for several years'.

'As a consequence', they say, 'it is not the asset that it could be; some elements of the existing fabric would benefit from being upgraded and the small building on site requires minor repairs'. 

They add: '[It's] an opportunity to completely revitalise a largely redundant area, with substantial benefits for, and no detriment to, its immediate surroundings and the wider city area'.

The project is being led by Tom Rowe, a joiner and former owner and operator of Castletown's Secret Pizza, and Liam Wiltshire of Kishtey Cheh Sauna in Port Erin.

They say the site will benefit local residents investing in their wellbeing, office workers seeking morning, lunchtime or post-work sessions, visitors looking for a unique Douglas experience and people 'exploring sauna culture and cold-water therapy'.

The application by LJW Enterprise LTD is currently pending consideration.

You can find more information here.