Would you like to play a part in the decision-making process for the island’s planning applications?
DEFA is seeking candidates with knowledge of the island and a willingness to serve in public life for a position on the planning committee.
Straightforward planning applications are determined at officer level but the planning committee considers applications for developments that are above a certain size or are more complex.
Around one in six applications goes to the committee for determination.
Three vacancies on the committee were advertised in the autumn but only two positions were filled.
DEFA Minister Richard Ronan MHK said: ‘In re-advertising the position, we hope to attract interest from a cross-section of the population.
‘We have a wealth of business and professional competence on the committee at the moment but we hope to increase the diversity and community representation.’
Retired head teacher Ian Cottier said that after eight years on the committee he still finds each agenda ‘of absorbing interest’.
‘Before I applied to join the committee, I went along to a public meeting,’ he explained. ‘To say I was impressed by the care and thoroughness that was shown to every application discussed, both by officers and members, is a considerable understatement.’
Peter Young, a retired police officer who runs an events company, joined the committee as he wanted to contribute something to the island.
‘As planning approves schemes that will last long into the future it was what I thought as a good way of having input,’ he said.
‘Sitting on the committee has given me a new interest in the buildings and architecture of the island.
‘Balancing the need to protect the countryside while acknowledging the need to develop and grow the economy is an important aspect of our decisions.’
Another member is former MHK Walter Gilbey, a past chairman of the committee and former Minister of the Local Government and the Environment
‘Participating in this important government committee, I always try to remember that “to govern is to serve”,’ he said.
Mr Ronan said it’s desirable that applicants have knowledge of the island and experience in the private, public or third sectors or working with groups.
‘Committee members must be keen to do their best for the island and must be capable of understanding policy, seeing subjects from all angles and acting impartially.
‘They must be resilient, given the high profile planning has, and be confident dealing with complex and emotive issues.’
The committee meets fortnightly, usually on a Monday. Agendas are sent out a week in advance and can involve considerable preparatory reading.
Committee members – who cannot be Members of Tynwald or local authorities – are appointed for five years.
They receive an induction and ongoing support. Legislation and standing orders guide their work.
On appointment they must complete a register of interests – e.g. property they own, businesses they run – so conflicts of interest can be avoided.
Committee members receive an allowance of £78 per meeting plus travelling expenses.
For an information pack about planning committee membership and an application form, visit www.gov.im/categories/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications/planning-committee-meetings/planning-committee-membership/, email planning@gov.im or call 685910.
The deadline for applications is May 27.
Interviews will take place on June 13.