This application seeks permission for the installation of two solar panels on a traditional property. The proposal is considered to be acceptable and is in accordance with the relevant policies of the Strategic Plan.
The Site
The application site is the curtilage of Struan Thie, Sulby Glen Road, Sulby which is a two storey traditional detached cottage situated to the eastern side of Sulby Glen Road. The property is set back from the highway by approximately 7.96m with an area of gravel hard standing to the front.
The application site is surrounded by open countryside with a large number of mature trees on the opposite side of the highway and to the northern side of the application site.
There are a few other properties along Glen Road but these are fairly spread out. The closest of these is the Sulby Water Treatment Works which is to the north west of the application site.
The Proposal
The application seeks approval for the installation of two solar panels on the western elevation. Each solar panel would measure approximately 2m x 1.4m and would be installed flush with the roof slope. The proposed panels would be dark in colour.
Planning History
There have been a number of previous planning applications for this site the most recent being earlier this year for the installation of replacement windows.
Development Plan Policies
The application site is within an "Area of High Landscape or Coastal Value and Scenic Significance" identified on the 1982 Development Plan. It is appropriate to consider Environment Policy 2, Paragraph 12.2.9 and Energy Policy 4 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan (20th June 2007).
Environment Policy 2
The present system of landscape classification of Areas of High Landscape or Coastal Value and Scenic Significance (AHLV's) as shown on the 1982 Development Plan and subsequent Local and Area Plans will be used as a basis for development control until such time as it is superseded by a landscape classification which will introduce different categories of landscape and policies and
guidance for control therein. Within these areas the protection of the character of the landscape will be the most important consideration unless it can be shown that:
(a) The development would not harm the character and quality of the landscape; or
(b) The location for the development is essential
Energy Policy 4
Development involving alternative sources of energy supply, including wind, water and tide power, and the use of solar panels, will be judged against the environmental objectives and policies set out in this Plan. Installations involving wind, water and tide power will require the submission of an EIA.
Paragraph 12.2.9
In the representations received on the Draft Strategic Plan 2001, there was support for the principle of promoting alternative or renewable energy sources from a range of those making representations. The Department remains of the view that the environmental impact of any proposals for alternative or renewable energy sources must be given similar scrutiny to other development proposals and not a lower test on the grounds that they are more environmentally friendly in energy terms.
Consultations
Highways Division has not commented
Lezayre Commissioners recommend that the application be approved.
Assessment
The key issues to consider in the assessment of the application are 1) Impact to character and appearance of the landscape 2) Environmental Impacts.
The proposed solar panels would alter the appearance of the dwelling which in turn could impact the character and appearance of the landscape.
Whilst the proposed solar panels are a relatively modern addition to this traditional dwelling, it is considered that they are fairly modest in size, would be installed flush with the roof slope and would be of a dark colour so not to stand out. For these reasons it is judged that the proposed development would not significantly alter the character and appearance of the dwelling.
It is considered that the alterations to the appearance of the property would not unduly harm the character and appearance of the landscape.
In terms of environmental impacts, the use of renewable energy is considered to have environmental benefits. Given that the proposed solar panels would be installed on the existing building it is considered that the proposal would not unduly harm the surrounding landscape.
For the above reasons the application is considered to be acceptable.
Party Status
The local authority, Lezayre Commissioners is, by virtue of the Town and Country Planning (Development Procedure) Order 2005, paragraph 6 (5) (d), considered an "interested person" and as such should be afforded party status.
Recommendation
Recommended Decision: Permitted
Conditions and Notes for Approval / Reasons and Notes for Refusal
C : Conditions for approval N : Notes attached to conditions R : Reasons for refusal
: Notes attached to refusals
C 1. The development hereby permitted shall commence before the expiration of four years from the date of this notice.
C 2. This permission relates to the installation of two solar panels as shown in drawings 1417-P-01, 1417-P-02, 1417-EL-03, 1417-EL-04 and 1417-EL-04 received 28th September 2011.
I confirm that this decision accords with the appropriate Government Circular delegating functions to Director of Planning and Building Control / Development Control Manager.
Decision Made : Permitted Date : 2 | 11 | 11
Signed : Michael Gallagher Director of Planning and Building Control
OR
Signed : Jennifer Chance Development Control Manager
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