Plans have been submitted for a 14-space car park on agricultural land next to The Station Hotel in Port St Mary.

Olive Tree Ltd, described as a potential purchaser of the land, has submitted the bid (18/01022/B) for off-road parking for the pub.

In a design statement it says: ’The hotel is now at a stage where it needs additional investment to maintain quality and accommodation standards. The fabric of the building also needs additional repair works to the windows and doors.’

It continues: ’The current owners can no longer invest money into the property and they have been actively advertising the business for sale over the last few years.

’They are now in discussions with a purchaser who wishes to retain the existing business and reinstate the restaurant and upgrade the tourist accommodation. The potential purchaser believes that an attached car park would be a great benefit to the business.’

Planners asked for alternatives to be investigated, but acknowledged that such use would, if suitably justified, support the retention of the business.

Port St Mary Commissioners asked for parking restrictions on the road outside.

Further information was supplied to address highways’ concerns including visibility splays, tactile paving and six-metre wide access to the car park.