The Department of Infrastructure is preparing to commence work on the first phase of the multi-million pound Douglas Promenade refurbishment scheme after receiving Tynwald approval earlier this month. The first phase running from Peveril Square to the site of the former Villiers Hotel on Loch Promenade will start the process to re-establish the status of the Promenade as the gateway to the capital of the Island. The work will include the following features:
- Reconstruction of the northbound carriageway
- Improvements at Walpole Avenue and Victoria Street junctions
- Installation of a new surface water drainage system, gullies and kerb drains
- Safer and more direct pedestrian crossing points at Victoria Street and Loch Promenade
- Improvements to pedestrian areas around Peveril Square, Walpole Avenue and Victoria Street
- Use of natural stone derived materials on the footways and pedestrian areas
- Relocation of the Jubilee Clock by approximately 8 metres to the south to facilitate Victoria Street junction improvements, and to make the area around the clock more accessible.
- Removal of unsightly street furniture, railings and fencing around the Sea Terminal, Peveril Square and the Jubilee Clock
The total cost for this phase of the scheme will be £1,658,000. The main contractor will be the Department’s Operations Division, but approximately 50% of the labour and plant element of the works will be sub-contracted to the local private sector.
The works will commence on Monday 5th August of this year with a completion date of 18th May 2014. Whilst the work will continue through the Manx Grand Prix festival, it will be completed in time for TT 2014. An extensive traffic management plan has been produced to keep traffic flowing for the majority of the project without the need for traffic signals and road closures, except for a very limited period. The horse tram operations will not be affected by this phase of the works, and will proceed alongside the other major projects in Douglas town centre and Peel Road without any major traffic impact.
Whilst these works are progressing on site, the Department will continue to develop plans for future phases of the Promenade scheme.
Minister David Cretney said
'I am delighted that we are finally making a start on refurbishing Douglas Promenade. The current condition creates a poor impression of the Island for residents and visitors. Not only will this project create short term jobs in the construction industry, but I believe that it will compliment the wider regeneration initiatives and help to promote the wider economy by creating a gateway and positive first impression of the Island that is fit for the modern era.'
