Thirteen Isle of Man landmarks — including former Victorian railway stations and the buildings where Manx laws are made — are being considered for special protection.
Isle of man Government writes:
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) issued Proposal to Register Notices (PRNs) last month, citing their potential architectural or historical interest. More than half of the sites are part of the Island’s heritage rail network past and present.
The list includes:
- Legislative Chambers, Douglas
- The Royal Chapel, St John’s
- Former School of Art, Douglas (now Kensington Arts)
- Former Peel Railway Station (now part of the House of Manannan)
- Kirk Michael Fire Station (former Railway Station)
- Douglas Railway Station Workshops
- Douglas Railway Station Signal Box
- Monk’s Bridge, Malew
- Groudle Viaduct
- Moore’s Bridge, Laxey
- Laxey Manx Electric Railway Viaduct
- Ballure Manx Electric Railway Viaduct
- The Stone Bridge, Ramsey
The move marks the start of a public consultation, which runs until 15 August 2025. During this period, members of the public and other interested parties can share their views.
This can be done by emailing buildingconservation@gov.im or via post to: Senior Registered Buildings Officer, Planning and Building Control Directorate, Murray House, Mount Havelock, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2SF
The PRN’s represent the first step in the formal process of protecting a building or structure under Manx law. Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘These proposals reflect the depth and diversity of the Island’s built heritage — from the grandeur of the Legislative Chambers to the engineering legacy of our historic railways. Registration plays an important role in recognising and preserving the character of our communities, and we welcome feedback from the public as part of this process.’ If registration goes ahead, the buildings will be protected from demolition or alteration affecting their character, unless registered building consent is granted.
