A historic estate in the north of the island has applied to install a temporary marquee next summer to accommodate various events, including weddings, TT hospitality and community functions, without hiring and installing a structure.

Milntown Estate and Gardens, near Ramsey, has submitted a planning application for the marquee to remain in place between May and August next year.

Instead of erecting and dismantling the structure for individual events, the estate's owners believe keeping it in place throughout the summer would be more cost-effective.

The applicant states in the planning statement: ‘The marquee will be supplied by Pitch & Pole. The structure will be used to host a variety of events, including our TT hospitality event, weddings, corporate functions, charitable events and other community and commercial functions.

‘By having a marquee in place for the ‘Summer’ season, we will be able to reduce the overall cost to customers, as marquee hire is often one of the largest additional expenses associated with hosting a larger event at the estate.

‘This will help make Milntown a more attractive and accessible venue for weddings, corporate events and community functions, increasing visitor numbers and supporting the Trust's charitable objectives through the maintenance, preservation and enhancement of the estate for future generations.’

The marquee would stand in the main front field, accommodating up to 250 guests, with approximately 15 staff supporting events.

The applicant says regular inspections and safety checks would take place throughout the summer, and that the marquee could be dismantled during high winds.

The structure would be removed entirely from the site once the proposed operating period ends.

The planning statement adds: ‘The proposed marquee will provide a valuable opportunity for the Milntown Estate to diversify and increase revenue streams, strengthen its financial sustainability and enhance its ability to preserve and maintain the historic.’

The planning application remains pending and will be considered by planners in due course, with no decision made.