15 December 2025
East Craig, St. Judes, Isle Of Man, IM7 2ew
Appeal against the refusal for conversion of first floor space above existing double garage to create living accommodation
Conversion of first floor space above existing double garage to create living accommodation
Proposed creation of vehicle access and hardstanding and proposed change of use for first floor in detached outbuilding
Additional use of garage as a dog grooming parlour
Elevation amendments and erection of a sun lounge on approved dwelling (06/00470B)
Demolition of existing dwelling and derelict barn and erection of a detached dwelling and double garage with store over
Erection of a double garage with living accommodation over to replace redundant barn
Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of a replacement dwelling
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The original application to convert the first floor of an existing garage (with ground floor dog grooming) into a one-bedroom rental flat was refused by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture for failing to meet HP11 criteria including redundancy, structural suitability, and architectural interest, conflicting with countryside policies in IMSP GP3. The appellant argued the space was redundant, on PDL, compliant with GP3(b-c), no visual impact, adequate parking/services, and contributed to housing needs. The inspector found no significant harm to amenity, character, or highways, accepted practical compliance despite policy shortcomings in HP11, and weighed the housing benefit as outweighing minor policy conflict. The appeal was allowed by the Minister on 15 December 2025, approving the development subject to time limit and parking conditions.
Precedent Value
Demonstrates flexibility in Isle of Man appeals where development plan lacks primacy; minor countryside policy conflict can be outweighed by housing need and no-harm findings, even without full HP11 evidence, if structure is modern/sound on inspection. Future applicants should prioritise highways clearance, existing use history, and rental/affordable benefits.
Inspector: Brian J Sims
