A protection scheme has been planned in response to damage caused to homes and businesses in Laxey by high tides and severe storms in 2014.
According to research commissioned by the Department of Infrastructure that analysed the forecast effects of climate change to 2115, severe weather events and rising sea levels are to continuously worsen over time.
The scheme in Laxey will be the latest in a series to take place around the Island to mitigate the impact of climate change. Subject to planning approval, work will begin in October.
A public display of the plans will take place on Thursday 19 July at Laxey Commissioners Offices in New Road between 2pm and 6pm.
It is proposed that a reinforced concrete cantilever retaining wall will be constructed along the length of the promenade to reduce the threat of overtopping.
This will link to a wall running from the pier to the boat park next to Laxey Bridge to offer protection from harbour flooding to properties in the Tent Road / Shore Road area.
As road levels along the harbour and the promenade vary, the height of the walls will be adapted to match the calculated flood height.
Kate Lord-Brennan MLC, Member with responsibility for Highway Services, said:
‘Lower Laxey has been the victim of devastating flooding in recent years and the proposed solution will enable future generations to avoid suffering similar problems.
‘I encourage residents to visit the display to see what is being planned, provide feedback and talk to members of the design team before planning approval is sought.’
The measures are designed to cope with a severe storm that has a 1% probability in any given year, in line with the current accepted climate change forecast.
Construction is expected to take six months and disruption will be minimal.
The proposed project will cost between £1.5m and £2m, with funds allocated from the Climate Change Adaption Scheme budget.
