Empire Garage plans cause a stir in Peel

A plan to knock down buildings in Peel at three sites owned by Empire Garage and replace them with apartments, has led to concern amongst local residents.

Applications have been submitted to demolish the garages, showroom, workshop and other structures on Marine Parade, Stanley Road and Cross Street.

A total of 26 flats and five town houses with ‘on-site parking’ will be developed on these sites, should the plans be approved.

All the locations are within the Peel Conservation Area, and will require special permission along with the usual planning approval before work can proceed.

Several Peel residents have taken to social media to voice their concerns about the size of the proposed developments.

They’ve called a meeting at the Masonic Hall tonight (20 March) to discuss the plans.

In its application, Empire Garage Limited claims independent motor traders have suffered as a result of new main dealers building premises in Douglas.

These ‘commerical challenges’ have influenced the owners to ‘explore development opportunities at its privately owned sites’.

The proposals are currently on display in Peel Town Hall and will also be discussed by local commissioners at their monthly meeting on Thursday (21 March).

The applications can also be viewed online via the government’s planning hub.