Capital's £19m prom upgrade confirmed

Green light for revised 'shared space' scheme

Government says it wants Douglas promenade to move into the modern era whilst also celebrating the Island's heritage - in its latest redevelopment plans.

Changes have been made to the 'shared space' scheme as the blueprint for its transformation.

The makeover costing £19.275 million, aims to create a modern gateway to Douglas, which it's hoped will act as a catalyst for investment in the capital.

The project will see a single horse tram track moved onto the walkway, which will be widened by almost two metres.

The plan also involves the creation of a new cultural quarter around the Gaiety Theatre and Sefton Hotel.

Infrastructure minister Phil Gawne says the design, which eliminates traditional markings between roads and pavements, takes into account the concerns of blind welfare organisations.

After consultation, an amended scheme now includes three pedestrian crossings at different points along the promenade. 

Moving the horse trams onto the walkway has proved controversial but Mr Gawne says the trams can be safely accommodated on the walkway, as additional space has been allowed for pedestrians, cyclists and other leisure users.

It has emerged a dozen options for renovating what Mr Gawne describes as the 'failing road' were considered - and rejected.

They ranged from patch-and-repair and surface dressing to a major highway reconstruction costing more than £15 million.

But all other schemes were discounted, according to Mr Gawne because they don't achieve the overall vision of a 'national asset' gateway which will serve the Isle of Man, its economy and people for the next 50 years.

The department will lodge a revised planning application in August which will appear on the government website.