The Department of Infrastructure is seeking Tynwald approval to start work on Phase 2 of the multimillion pound Douglas Promenade refurbishment.
Minister Laurence Skelly MHK will ask Members to support a £1.36 million capital investment in the area of Loch Promenade from the Bottleneck car park to Regent Street.
The scheme is designed to build on the success of the initial phase of work, which has helped to revitalise Peveril Square and the Victoria Street/promenade junction.
Those improvements, completed ahead of this year’s TT Festival, feature natural stone paving, new street furniture and the introduction of trees to re-establish the area as a quality gateway to the Island.
Subject to approval being granted at the July sitting of Tynwald, Phase 2 will involve the reconstruction of the highway and footways, and improvements to highway drainage.
The horse tram tracks will be removed from the centre of the road from Peveril Square to Regent Street. A dedicated corridor will be set aside on the seaward side of the carriageway in readiness for the construction of the new horse tram tracks. An area will also be allocated on the footway adjacent to the Bottleneck car park for the provision of a tram terminus and shelter.
If Tynwald Members give Phase 2 the go-ahead, it is intended that work will start in September, with a scheduled completion date in March 2015.
A comprehensive traffic management plan has been produced and the aim is to keep traffic flowing without the need for traffic signals or road closures – except for a very limited period.
Parking will be permitted on the walkway adjacent to the Marine Gardens to compensate for the loss of on-street parking on the promenade during the construction period. This will operate on a similar basis to the Christmas parking, but will be subject to weather conditions.
Infrastructure Minister Laurence Skelly MHK said:
‘The Department is committed to delivering a high quality infrastructure that allows the Isle of Man to attract new investment and secure future economic growth. The promenade in Douglas is the gateway to the Island and provides a first impression for visitors arriving at the Sea Terminal.’
He added:
‘As well as improving the visual appeal of the area, the scheme will enhance the ride quality of the road, improve drainage and set in motion plans to relocate the horse tram tracks to a safer location on the seaward side of the promenade. We hope this work will breathe new life into the area, support existing businesses and encourage more private sector investment.’
The total capital cost for Phase 2 is £1,362,000. The Department of Infrastructure’s Highway Services Division will deliver the scheme, retaining responsibility for the production and laying of asphalt concrete, lining works and the supply of natural stone paving materials and kerbs. Approximately 50% of the labour and plant element of the work will be sub-contracted to the private sector.
If Phase 2 is approved, plans will be progressed for Phase 3, which will focus on the refurbishment of the remainder of Douglas promenade from Regent Street to Strathallan.
