Douglas Borough Council is ‘broadly supportive’ of the Department of Infrastructure’s £20.73 million scheme to reconstruct Douglas promenade’s failing highway and re-model the surrounding area and infrastructure, Council Leader Councillor David Christian MBE JP has said.

Subject to Tynwald approval the scheme, due to start in September 2018, will feature twin horse tram tracks in the centre of the highway from Strathallan to Castle Mona Avenue, switching to a single track on the seaward side terminating near the Sea Terminal, complemented by a new design for the southern section of the promenade, central to which will be a cultural area to be created in the vicinity of the Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre.

Councillor Christian said: ‘The Council is pleased that the promenade’s long overdue re-construction finally looks set to begin next year. The proposal submitted reflects the positive working relationship the Council has enjoyed latterly with the Department of Infrastructure and I congratulate the Minister and his team on preparing a scheme where all those concerned have been willing to accept compromises.

‘There are, however, some design elements the Council would have preferred to be incorporated; principally the use of granite for the full length of the promenade rather than just to Castle Mona Avenue. The Council does, however, welcome the provisions being made for cyclists and the proposals to improve traffic flow at Broadway and Greensills Corner.

‘Importantly, the Council offers its overwhelming support for the creation of the cultural zone, which will substantially enhance the area and provide a versatile community space that will lead into what will be a regenerated Castle Street, where work is due to commence in April 2018.’

Councillor Christian went on to say that once the proposal received approval from Tynwald the Council fully intended to play a central role in advancing and investing in the project, looking at how best to revitalise or replace shelters, kiosks and other fixtures and, crucially, developing a bespoke lighting scheme.

In closing Councillor Christian said: ‘The Council shares the Department’s vision that Douglas Promenade should project a positive, welcoming and open-for-business image. This scheme is set to transform that vision into a reality and create a landmark gateway into the capital of our Island of which we and generations to come can be proud.’