Arguing the economic benefit was a key reason controversial plans for a care home in Port Erin were approved.

That’s the view of consultancy Pegasus Group, hired by applicant Spaldrick Care to give evidence on the planning and economics of the proposal.

Plans for the 72-bedroom residential care home provoked objections from Port Erin Commissioners and 28 individuals, couples and families, who suggested it represented ’over-intensive use of the site’.

Planners originally turned down the bid saying ’the proposed building fails to respect the site and surroundings in terms of its siting, layout, scale, form, design and would therefore represent over-development’.

In addition, it said that residents of Bradda Glen Close would be adversely affected by the new views the development would afford.

But the application was approved at appeal. Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot delegated responsibility to Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer to determine the appeal.

Mr Harmer followed the planning inspector’s recommendation that the appeal be allowed and the department’s original refusal be reversed.

Planning inspector Michael Hurley concluded: ’The proposed development would not have so severe an impact on amenity as to justify the refusal of planning approval.’

Pegasus Group’s executive director Jim Tarzey said: ’We were able to present a strong case that addressed the key reasons for refusal, such as the impact on character and appearance of the area and the prospect of harm to the neighbouring properties.’

He added: ’The case presented to the appeal was greatly enhanced by evidence provided by Richard Cook (economics associate) which enabled the inspector to draw robust conclusions about the need for the development and the economic benefits that it would provide.

’These were reflected in the inspector’s conclusions, and the case represented a good example of how the economics team can add value to the evidence presented.’

Residents are considering submitting a petition for redress of grievance on Tynwald Day because they feel correct procedure was not followed over the decision