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From: To: DEFA, Planning Cc: Poole-Wilson, Jane (MHK) Subject: PA No 26 00262 C Date: 28 April 2026 09:24:34
Kamishin Harbour Road
Port Grenaugh
Santon Isle of Man
IM4 1HF
23rd April, 2026 Via Email:
Charles Kohler Technical Officer Planning & Building Control
Subject: Objection to Planning Application PA26/00262/C
Dear Mr Kohler
I write to formally object to the above planning application relating to The Old Mill, Harbour Road, Santon.
The proposed change of use from a residential dwelling to office space is likely to result in a significant increase in vehicle movements to and from the property. This is already evidenced by the level of traffic associated with the existing, unfinished development, where staff and visitors’ vehicles are regularly present. This situation has been ongoing for over 12 years.
Given this, it would be more appropriate for the existing office provision to be completed and properly accommodated before any further expansion is considered.
From lived experience as a resident of Harbour Road, even a modest increase in traffic raises genuine concerns. The road is not well suited to accommodate a higher volume of traffic associated with commercial use, and this presents clear risks to highway safety for both residents and other road users.
It is also relevant to note that due to the lack of a suitable turning area, service vehicles such as refuse collection lorries are required to reverse along Harbour Road to access and exit the area. This further demonstrates the existing limitations of the road layout and highlights the potential for increased conflict and safety risk should additional traffic associated with commercial use be introduced.
The property does not provide sufficient off-road parking to support its use as office accommodation. This is likely to result in increased on-road parking, leading to congestion and further exacerbating safety concerns within what is a residential area.
Any requirement to increase off-road parking provision would likely result in the loss of existing green space and established trees, which currently support local wildlife, including nesting birds and other species. This would have a negative impact on the local environment and biodiversity.
At a time when the Isle of Man faces a shortage of housing, the loss of a substantial and well-suited family home is deeply concerning. Properties of this nature are an important part of the island’s housing stock and should be protected for residential use wherever possible.
The proposed use as an office, particularly for a business with potential international operations, raises concerns regarding the intensity and duration of activity at the site. This could include extended or irregular working hours, increased comings and goings, and general disturbance that would not be in keeping with a residential setting.
Introducing an office use would alter the character of the locality and impact the amenity of neighbouring properties through increased activity, traffic, and general disturbance.
It is also relevant to note that there is an established boarding kennel business operating nearby, in place since 1987. The nature of this business includes regular noise from dogs, particularly when visitors arrive. This further highlights the unsuitability of introducing an office environment into this location, as the surrounding uses are not aligned with the expectations of a commercial office setting.
As a neighbouring resident, this proposal would have a direct and ongoing impact on the safety and amenity of my home and the surrounding area.
For these reasons, I respectfully request that this application be refused. Yours faithfully cc. Santon Commissioners Jane Poole-Wilson Sent from my iPhone
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