Planning committee chair says development will be 'great for businesses in the area'
Plans to convert an office building in Douglas into a 64-bed hotel have been unanimously approved.
Royalty House on Walpole Avenue has been used as office space since 1999 and retains an art deco design as per the former Royalty Cinema on the site.
Concerns over parking - with the ground floor conversion coming at the loss of 13 spaces were discussed at this morning's planning committee meeting.
However, members say many UK hotels have no parking provision and the plans will be “great for the Island, great for Douglas.”
The proposals include provision for the ground floor to be converted into restaurant and bar area.
An Agent, speaking on behalf of applicant Keith Lord, told the hearing the area is a “sustainable” location - near the sea terminal and major bus routes, and it's expected summer coach tours will be key customers.
It's also estimated the development will result in 18 full-time jobs being created with an average salary of £30,000.
Chair Rob Callister MHK acknowledged a surplus of office space in the capital, saying the new hotel will be “great for businesses in the area, which is a ‘gateway’ to the Isle of Man.”
The top floor extension will a include spa facility and it’s said it will be out of sight from street view.
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