Major Lord Street development withdrawn by developer

Developer pulls plans for cinema, housing and transport hub in Douglas

Plans for a major redevelopment of the Lord Street car park site in Douglas have been formally withdrawn.

The proposal, submitted by Wyyttavin Ltd in July 2024, included a 14-storey mixed-use scheme featuring a multiscreen cinema, office space, commercial units, residential apartments, and transport facilities.

The project also included a green roof terrace, private parking for 91 vehicles, and a bus information centre.

The development was due to receive funding through the Island Infrastructure Scheme - a government initiative designed to accelerate the regeneration of brownfield sites by offering financial assistance of up to 25 percent of eligible costs.

In a letter dated 2 April 2025, Wyyttavin Director Georgina Charleton confirmed the company's decision to withdraw the application:

"I am writing to you in my capacity as a director of Wyyttavin Ltd which currently has a planning application with you planning application number 24/00586/B.  The company Wyyttavin Ltd is withdrawing the planning application.  If you can please confirm that this application is withdrawn fully at your earliest convenience."

No reason for the withdrawal has been publicly disclosed.

Wyyttavin declined to comment.

In a statement, the Department for Enterprise provided the following comment:

“The Department is aware that Wyyttavin Ltd has formally withdrawn their planning application in respect of the proposed development of the Lord Street site.  Development on this site was subject to an application for support under the Island Infrastructure Scheme and whilst an agreement in principle had been provided, progression to a formal offer was contingent on gaining full planning approval.   

“As with all offers of financial support under the Island Infrastructure Scheme, any payments to developers are only made subject to the completion of the development in line with the application and subsequent planning approval.

“The second round of applications for the Island Infrastructure Scheme remains open until the 30 June 2025 and should a new application for the site be made, this will be considered in line with the Tynwald approved Scheme and published guidelines. Further information can be found here: dfe.im/iis”