Residents start campaign against a proposed planning application by Douglas Council

It wants to build a construction compound on a recreation ground on Ballanard Rd

A group of residents on Ballanard Road, Manor Hotel Drive and Norwood Drive have started a community campaign against a proposed planning application by Douglas Council.

The local authority is looking to build a construction compound on the playing field next to the road whilst it carries out its refurbishment of its social housing stock in the area.

However, the residents are lodging an objection to this, saying the recreation area has ‘value’ as an open space in an urban area for the local children and there are protected species such as bats living there.

(Picture credit: Emma Draper/LDRS)

The council sent a letter, seen by Manx Radio to those households whilst other properties adjoining the site were not notified.

It doesn’t include timelines, a map or details about the duration of the works.

However, the letter does say the site will be ‘temporary’ and will be made as ‘inconspicuous as possible’.

It also confirmed the site will be needed for ‘several years’ but the field would be ‘fully reinstated’ once the development is complete and could include some ‘enhancements’ in the future, and states the playing field is the ‘only logical area’ available for the required facility.

At the meeting, the residents discussed potential freedom of information requests, arranging a meeting with councillors and tree surveys and felling.

The owner of the property closest to the playing field says if it goes ahead, there will be a 'massive impact' on people:

A draft plan of the site, seen by Manx Radio, shows 18 trees will need to be removed and an access path will be created.  

Scott, who’s 11, said he learnt to ride his bike on the field:

Also at the meeting was Douglas Central MHK Ann Corlett, who said she will be supporting the residents where possible:

Douglas Council has been contacted for comment.