COM4

Community Policy 4: Development (including the change of use of existing premises) which involves the loss of local shops and local public houses, will only be permitted if it can be demonstrated that the use is no longer commercially viable, or cannot be made commercially viable.

10.9 Hospitals

10.9.1 The new hospital located in Braddan is now operational, and any further land-use requirements arising therefrom are dealt with in the relevant Area Plan. Likewise, any land-use requirements arising from regional facilities will be addressed by the appropriate Area Plans.

10.10 School Sites

10.10.1 Schools play an important role as a focus for community activity, providing not only schooling for children but also adult education, sports facilities, and cultural and social opportunities. This is especially true in our smaller villages. The continued viability and accessibility of village schools will therefore be one of the more important criteria to which the Department has regard when preparing new Area Plans. In the preparation of Area Plans, the Department will consult with the Education Department on such criteria. Also, an increasing population, and changes in the profile and distribution of the population, are leading to demand for new and extended schools. Accordingly, the following policy is appropriate: