Next refused site on industrial estate

The clothing superchain had its application for the use of a warehouse denied by Planning and Building Control.

They claim it’s because many of the goods, particularly the children’s wear, were not considered to be bulky. 

Government Policy supports retail sale of bulky goods in out-of-town locations, but demands the sale of clothing and comparison goods stay within town centres so as to protect their vitality.

For a long time, Next was strongly linked to the site now sought after by Dixons, which wants to open a Currys/PC World store there.

Director of Planning and Building Control Michael Gallagher said they are keen to promote economic growth but they don’t want to undermine retailing in Douglas or other town centres around the Island.