A petition asking the government to protect the island’s beauty spots from development has received 1.400 siygnatures.

Petitioner Julie Billingsley handed the request to the Minister of Policy and Reform Chris Thomas MHK, asking to preserve UNESCO biosphere care and core zones and areas of high scenic and coastal value.

Julie said: ’The island’s planning system is being reviewed and planning laws should be in place to protect these areas from development.

’Tourism is very important and the natural beauty of the island is one of its main attractions.

’Once developed these areas are lost forever and if developments are allowed in these areas a precedence could be set.’