An application for works to a historic ‘Arts and Crafts’ house in Douglas including construction of a new home within its grounds is being recommended for refusal.

Proposals have been submitted to demolish a non-historic rear extension at Leyton on Victoria Road (26/00158/GB) and (26/00157/CON), together with the repair and restoration of historic portion of building and erection of additional detached dwelling within the grounds.

Leyton had been added to the island’s protected buildings register in February 2024. An application to de-register was refused in June that year and an appeal against that decision lodged by the building owner was dismissed in December 2024.

At the time of registration, the building had not been occupied for a number of years and it had sustained vandalism and was showing signs of general neglect.

In the two years since, the site has continued to be the target of vandals, with many of the windows now having smashed glazing.

At the appeal inquiry, it was noted that although the property was not in good condition and was in need of repair, the historic Arts and Crafts style and design of the building was still apparent.

The application for planning approval and registered building consent proposes significant repair and restoration of the building.

This includes demolition of non-historic rear extension of building, installation of a replacement roof, replacement of perished timber such as fascias, soffits, barge boards and first-floor external panelling, and replacement windows.

The plans been submitted by Mark Peace of JM Project Management Ltd which is progressing a housing development bordering the site.

Senior registered buildings officer Tom Sinden said that given the other positive works proposed, installation of UPVC framed windows on the side and rear would be acceptable.

But he has expressed concern that the construction of an additional dwelling on the site, essentially halving the curtilage of the historic registered building, would ‘clearly harm the building’s setting’.

The property was built between 1896-97 in the Arts and Crafts style for the landowner Thomas Kneen, a notable lawyer who served as MHK from 1890-91 and Captain of the parish of Onchan from 1895-1916.

Soon after its construction, the house was bought by William Lay, a young advocate who went on to become the first full-time High Bailiff for the whole island.

Recommending refusal, principal planning officer Chris Balmer said the proposed dwelling, by reason of its scale, massing, proximity to Leyton and siting within the side garden, would ‘erode and harm the established setting and curtilage of the registered building’.

He said: ‘The existing dwelling derives a significant part of its character and significance from its clearly defined curtilage, enclosed by traditional Manx stone walls, together with its independent access and driveway, which contribute positively to its prominence, status and historic setting.

‘The subdivision of the site and erection of a new dwelling would fundamentally alter this relationship.

‘This would diminish the legibility, individuality and importance of Leyton and would result in unacceptable harm to the character, setting and significance of the registered building.’