31 May 2012 · Minister for Infrastructure, by Order of I T Thompson (Chief Executive)
8, The Crofts, Castletown, Isle Of Man, IM9 1lw
The proposal involved installing uPVC 'cottage style' windows with white timber graining effect frames and a blue uPVC door on the front elevation of 8 The Crofts, a three-storey stone-built mid-terrace dwelling in Castletown Conservation Area.
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The proposal was refused because the uPVC windows and door would harm the character and appearance of the property, terrace, and Castletown Conservation Area, failing to preserve or enhance as require…
Environment Policy 35
Requires development in Conservation Areas to preserve or enhance character and appearance, protecting special features. Assessed against the terrace's traditional stone-built uniformity and timber casements; uPVC failed as it introduced bulkier frames lacking moulded detailing unique to Castletown, harming street scene and area character.
Planning Circular 1/98, The Alteration and Replacement of Windows
Requires visible replacement windows to match original opening method and frame sections; glazing bars must match section. Proposal matched opening but not frame sections or true glazing bar division ('stick-on' bars inadequate), and uPVC's engineered look did not replicate timber subtlety despite wood grain finish.
Planning Policy Statement 1/01 - Policy CA/2 (Conservation Areas)
Requires consideration of impact on Conservation Area character, including context and views. Terrace's uniformity and Castletown-specific moulded window details assessed; uPVC would adversely affect this without faithful replication.
resolved to approve the application
Castletown Town Commissioners approved application 12/00585/B following their Board meeting on 3 May 2012.
Castletown Town Commissioners
SupportFollowing a meeting of the Board on 3/5/12, I am directed to inform you that the following applications have been approved.; 12/00585/B
The original application (12/00585/B) for installation of replacement uPVC windows and door to the front elevation of a stone-built terraced dwelling in Castletown Conservation Area was refused for failing to preserve or enhance the area's character under Environment Policy 35. The appellant argued the replacement was like-for-like, beneficial for maintenance and energy efficiency, compliant with Planning Circular 1/98, and supported by precedents and local commissioners. The Council defended the refusal emphasizing the terrace's traditional timber windows, bulkier uPVC appearance, and non-replication of detailing. The inspector found the proposal would harm the terrace and Conservation Area due to bulkier frames, inadequate replication of timber detailing, and conflict with policies, dismissing the appeal. The Minister concurred on 11 October 2012.
Precedent Value
This appeal emphasises strict adherence to Planning Circular 1/98 for frame and glazing bar replication in Conservation Areas; uPVC replacements must precisely match existing timber detailing or harm will outweigh benefits, regardless of energy savings or maintenance arguments. Future applicants should prioritise slimline profiles and authentic mouldings over material preferences.
Inspector: Stephen Amos MA (Cantab) MCD MRTPI
