Landmark Hotel Appeal Rejected

18th May 2015

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An appeal against planners’ refusal to replace Glen Helen Inn, at Glen Helen, with residential accommodation has been rejected.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne followed planning inspector Anthony Wharton’s recommendation the appeal be dismissed.

Migrah Glen Limited applied (14/00882/A) to government planners to replace the building – which closed its doors to tourists in December 2013 – saying that despite their proven track record in the hospitality industry that they had to reluctantly admit defeat.

Their plan was for two homes on the site.

The Department of Econmic Development had opposed the bid, saying a further loss of bed spaces in that part of the island would be detrimental to the visitor economy.

Mr Wharton recommended the appeal be dismissed while acknowledging ‘what appears to be a dire situation for the future of tourism at Glen Helen’.

He said he did not consider that the site had been proven to be redundant for tourism purposes, and that the principle of housing on the site ‘remains highly questionable’.

‘The erection of two dwellings on the site could clearly add to the island’s economy but to allow this particular change of use could set a most unfortunate precedent,’ Mr Wharton said.

‘To allow this particular proposal could result in further erosion of tourism and a consequent reduction in the important part that it plays in contributing to the island’s economy.’

As told by IOM Today

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