Plans are afoot to enlarge access from the quayside to Lorne House in Castletown.

Owner of the landmark building Roy Tilleard asked the local authority if commissioners would support alterations to the entrance from Bridge Street.

At present there is pedestrian access via a doorway in the wall surrounding the property; the main access is from Douglas Street.

There was an application (10/01046/B by Mr Tilleard) for new walls, pillars, gates and access driveway from Bridge Street. The plan was refused and planners said it would have a detrimental affect on the appearance and character of the area, within a designated conservation area.

Castletown Commissioners objected saying it was not necessary, was detrimental to the area’s historical context, cause traffic problems and harm the woodland.

Mr Tilleard appealed against the decision, but the independent inspector Graham Self dismissed arguments it would give greater access or emergency vehicles and enable glimpses of the house.

The highway authority didn’t object on the grounds of road safety, but the inspector was worried about ’sub standard visibility’ was a ’secondary objection’.

He agreed with planners’ decision to refuse the plan, but said If it was approved, there should be conditions:to safeguard any archaeological interests, protect trees, and ensure any new wall matches the existing.

Of the latest approach Castletown Commissioners said at a recent meeting they were unopposed to a new entrance in principle, but would have to see the plans before they made any decision.

- Permission was granted last month to plans (17/00685/C by Roy and Sue Tilleard) for Lorne House to be used as an educational/visitor centre.