105959

Dept of Environment Planning & Building Control Directorate

First Floor

Murray House

Mount Havelock

Douglas

Isle of Man IM1 2SF

Re: Planning Application for 10 Malew Street, Castletown, Isle of Man IM9 1AB

Ref: 18/00323/C

Dear Sir/Madam

I refer to the planning application for 10 Malew Street, to allow the property to be used for office or retail use.

I have had a Manx gift shop in Arbory Street, Castletown for over 18 years and managed to cope with many changes i.e road/building work and down turns in business along the way. However, I am extremely concerned with the current situation over the reduced number of retail outlets in Castletown. Mainly due to change of use of a number of properties from retail shops to offices, residential and food outlets which are continuing to increase day-by-day, which are now starting to impact on the small local retail businesses of the town.

I am objecting to this application on the following grounds:

(1) Many of the original retail outlets in Malew Street & Arbory Street, Castletown have already been converted to residential, office or food outlets in recent years

(2) All 29 food outlets, classified as 'retail', are becoming too predominant in Castletown

(3) The total number of retail shops available for holiday souvenirs is currently 5. This figure includes the Castle and the Grammar School which are currently closed. Tourists often ask me "where is the shopping centre in Castletown?". I reply "you're in it".

(4) Retail in Castletown is now at a critical stage. Castletown only has a limited number of retail premises available for shops. If the use is approved and changed, retail shopping in Castletown may well disappear in the very near future for good

(5) Many local residents are already shopping elsewhere on the island or on the internet, due to the limited number of shops in Castletown

(6) The population of Castletown is due to increase when new houses are built at Knock Rushen, Scarlett. The retail shops are not varied enough to support their needs locally and if we lose what we have now, it will make life even more difficult for these people

(7) There is an ageing population in Castletown who are not always physically able to shop elsewhere, especially during the winter months

(8) Currently the basic everyday needs of local residents, tourists or office workers are not being met by the limited variety of retail outlets in Castletown

(9) At present some local shops open at a later time in the mornings, close early, only open in the evenings or only open by pre-booking an appointment; due to lack of footfall

I would like to think that as a small business in Castletown I am an important asset to the town. I thoroughly enjoy serving the community and welcome many regular tourists from all around the world. I raise over £3,000.00 a year for local charities and am a lifeline for many people who live on their own.

I hope to continue with my business for many years to come as my parents, grandparents and great grandparents have done spanning over 80 years. However, if the footfall continues to decline, I may be forced to close my business.

Castletown (Balley Cashtal) "The Ancient Capital of the Isle of Man" has a great deal to offer but we need more shops to help the town to grow for future generations. I hope you will consider my objection before making your final decision.

I look forward to hearing from you in due course.

Yours faithfully

Diane H. Tyrer

Mrs Diane H Tyrer Chree-Brae Gifts & Jewellery

Copy: Castletown Town Commissioners Castletown Heritage