AN inquiry date has been set into a plan by Nicholson Group Limited for a large business park near Castletown.
The company – which owns Shoprite – has applied (12/01404/A) for approval in principle for the development, on land near the airport, and next to Ronaldsway Industrial Estate.
Known as the Ronaldsway Gateway Business Park, it would comprise land and buildings for new technology companies as well as office accommodation including for a corporate headquarters for Shoprite and a 75-bed hotel.
The inquiry – expected to last three days – will take place from 10am on Tuesday, February 19 at government offices, in Buck’s Road, Douglas.
At a pre-inquiry meeting, held last week, it was determined there were two key issues.
Firstly, the acceptability of the principle of the proposed development, bearing in mind the relevant policies in the development plan and the emerging area plan for the south.
The impact of the proposed access arrangements on local highway conditions will also be considered.
The inquiry will hear evidence from Nicholson Group Ltd on the need for a corporate headquarters at the site.
A number of local residents and Manx National Heritage also intend to speak at the inquiry. The Department of Infrastructure is taking a neutral stance as it owns a small part of the site.
The planning inspector hopes a representative from the Department of Economic Development will attend to give evidence on the expected economic benefits of the proposed development.
