“Concerns have been raised that potential changes to planning law could allow the Department of Infrastructure to remove tram tracks without seeking permission.
The proposed Permitted Development Order 2024 would allow for development of any tramway works without having to put in a planning application.
This would consist of installation, maintenance, improvement, removal or alteration of tracks and conduits, drains and pipes in connection with the working of tramways.
Previously it was only the installation of tracks which were exempt from seeking planning approval.
As part of the Built Environment Reform Programme, the Cabinet Office has held a three-month public consultation to look at changing legislation surrounding planning applications.
It wanted to change the types of work which could be carried out without needing a permitted development order.
Between 2020 and 2023 an average of around 1400 applications were made each year – more than 60 percent of these sought full planning approval for small proposals.
The Cabinet Office said by ‘reviewing and expanding’ the works that could be undertaken, without needing a planning application, finite government resources could be redirected towards dealing with proposals which need the most scrutiny.
The consultation closed on Monday (2 September).
Results will now be considered and any necessary amendments made to the orders.
The final versions will then be taken to Tynwald; if approved they could come into force in early 2025.”