Heron and Brearley is seeking to create a link between The Bridge and Vino of 1 Quine’s Corner, Douglas.

The brewery, which owns both businesses, last month submitted the request for the alterations to Douglas Council, which owns the block consisting of commercial and residential property.

The Regeneration and community committee decided to grant the request ’for Heron and Brearley Limited to undertake the proposed alterations to 1 Quine’s Corner, Douglas subject to the tenant obtaining statutory approvals.’

It was also noted this is subject to Heron and Brearley obtaining any necessary permissions and approvals from Building Control, the Fire Authority and addressing any concerns from Environmental Health in regards to noise nuisance.

In the council, Councillor Jonathan Joughin asked questions regarding the plans which fall within the Victoria Ward which he represents.

Noting that The Bridge on North Quay has shortened midweek opening hours, he asked if it couldn’t be open after 10pm.

Previous applications had been rejected because of the concerns of those who live above the building.

’Indeed what has changed?’ he asked.

Committee chairman, Councillor Stephen Pitts responded that in the plans submitted, noise seal will be fitted and the licensing hours are not a council matter, as such he couldn’t comment on them.

He added ’at current, no complaints from either premises regarding noise are known of and as long as there is no inconvenience to residents plans should go ahead.’

However, Mr Joughin proceeded to continue his questioning, concerned over potential rent reduction claims by residents above the premises.

He asked: ’Will tenants be consulted on the plans, and how will it affect the adjacent restaurant?’ He was referring to Asia Fresh, which itself is bound by restrictions on opening hours.

Mr Pitts again responded he couldn’t comment on licensing laws but ’it should be suggested that the housing director communicates with the tenants regarding these plans.’

Heron and Brearley, which owns a number of premises both on island and in the UK were invited to comment by The Examiner but at the time of going to print, had not yet done so.

Also discussed in the council was the former Newson’s Trading Company buildings which went before the environmental services committee.

The committee was asked to considered placing the buildings on the Protected Buildings Register.

They were told the buildings feature on early surviving photographs and maps of the area, and are the remaining survivor of this type on Douglas Quay.

In the council, Councillor Carol Malarkey stated her opposition to listing believing it was a ’chance for modernisation’ and was joined by Councillor Karen Angela who said ’derelict buildings are an issue and we don’t need more.’

Councillor Colin Cain asked if any survey of the buildings’ current state had been carried out and Councillor Falk Horning believed due to their location in a protected area it was unnecessary.’

Chairman Mr Richard McNicholl, however, stated his support that ’listing them makes the owners keep them in good condition. ’All of the character has been taken out of Douglas Quay. The Isle of Man Bank was listed, but too late, only after they took out its soul and removed the old wooden desks,’ he said. ’We’ve got to take a stand, enough demolition of our heritage.’