Residents will begin to receive letters from this week asking for their views on the Island’s roads, transport links, cycle routes and footpaths.
The Department of Infrastructure is once again taking part in the UK’s National Highways and Transport (NHT) survey in order to assess satisfaction levels in comparison to local authorities across the UK.
More than 3,000 surveys have been sent to random addresses across the Island by market research specialists Ipsos Mori.
The 12-page survey is a standard document used by more than 100 local authorities across the UK to ensure comparisons are reliable, and there is no opportunity to tailor either the letter or the survey to the Isle of Man.
Divided into themes, the survey includes a series of multiple choice responses to questions under each heading. The themes cover a range of topics including road condition and maintenance, the provision of bus and taxi services, congestion, crossing points, street lighting, accessibility and the ways in which enquiries are handled.
Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said:
‘This is the second consecutive year we will be collecting information in this way, and the responses provided will enable the Department to plan with confidence and allocate resources accordingly.
‘If you receive a survey, please take the time the complete it by either returning the print version or using the website link and access code provided. The results will be used to assess public opinion, and over time will allow Highway Services to monitor progress.’
He added:
‘I realise that UK references are less than ideal in an Island context when the Department is the highway authority, but I am keen to see how we measure up against the councils and authorities and urge people to help us by getting involved.’
All responses are confidential and participants have the opportunity to take part in a prize draw.
