Isle of Man Travel, Traffic and Motoring News

Flap gate project will lead to closure of Douglas inner harbour and marina

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 07:00:06 GMT

Major works will take place on the flap gate to Douglas inner harbour and marina next month.

The project is part of planned maintenance work on the flap gate, which has been retaining water in the marina for the last 20 years.

Work is scheduled to take place between 5 and 28 of October, but remains weather-dependent. During this time the inner harbour and marina will be closed to all vessel traffic, and appropriate arrangements are being made for those who will be affected.

The work itself will involve the creation of a coffer dam to allow the removal of the flap gate, which will then be overhauled. The opportunity will be also taken to inspect the surrounding infrastructure and make any necessary repairs.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the project should call Mark Kenyon, Director of Harbours, on 685184 or email mark.kenyon@gov.im

Railway season extended

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 11:02:43 GMT

The Isle of Man Steam Railway and Manx Electric Railway will both run for an additional three weeks, following a successful season catering for Island residents and visitors from Guernsey.

The routes have carried more than 27,000 passengers since services resumed towards the end of July.

The Steam Railway will operate Thursday to Sunday this week, and then run at weekends only until October 4. The Manx Electric Railway will run today and tomorrow (Monday-Tuesday) and then also provide services at weekends only until October 4.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘I’m delighted we have been able to extend the seasons on both routes and I know the staff involved are looking forward to welcoming passengers on board into the autumn.’

The dining trains have proved extremely popular, with the majority of services selling out over the summer season, and will continue to operate Thursday to Sundays until 4 October. Visit www.rail.im for a full list of events and call 697457 or email steamdining@gov.im to make a booking.

Full details on all timetables can be found online at www.rail.im

New winter timetable for Bus Vannin

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 16:52:07 GMT

bus vannin’s new Winter 2020 Timetable is coming into operation on Wednesday 9 September to coincide with the start of the new school year.

With Douglas Promenade returning to two way traffic, Onchan services will be restored to their normal routing from 9 September. Service 30 along Douglas Promenade will cease operation on this date.

Other notable changes

Service 13:	Starts 14 September
Service 14/14B:	0808 14 and 1550 14B services to/from CRHS start 9 September. All other services re-commence 14 September
Service 16:	Starts 9 September
Service 29:	0755 and 1555 school journeys start 9 Sept. Tuesday and Friday services re-commence Tuesday 15 September
Service 28:	Summer journeys cease operation on 6 September

School bus timetables are now available at www.bus.im and the public are encouraged to check for any changes to journeys.

There is still time to purchase Go School cards. These are available at a number of retail outlets and online. For more information on the appropriate card visit www.bus.im.

Printed timetables will be available shortly.

Two-way traffic to return to Douglas Promenade From Tuesday 8 September 2020

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:53:25 GMT

The promenade in Douglas will open to two-way traffic three months earlier than expected.

Since July, both the Summerhill and Broadway junctions have been closed, with one-way along the whole length of the Promenade.

It was planned to reopen the junctions at Summerhill and Broadway on 8 September to provide two-way traffic between the two junctions; the southern half of the promenade was to stay one-way until December.

Following positive consultation and discussions with businesses, the project team have worked with the contractor, Auldyn Construction, to reinstate two-way traffic.

In order to facilitate this change, the Broadway junction will remain closed until the end of October. Businesses agreed that having two-way traffic flow along the full length of the Promenade would give much better access than opening Broadway. The Summerhill junction will open on time on 8 September. This will allow traffic to travel south on the promenade either down Summerhill Road or along King Edward Road.

As traffic from the north will no longer be concentrated on Glencrutchery Road, Governor’s Dip will return to its original layout on 8 September. The changes in the diversion routes will also see the removal of the temporary bus/bike lane at St Ninians.

This means that from 8 September, two-way traffic will be provided along the full length of the Promenade and that the diversion route will return to normal. Detailed drawings of the key junctions are available to view online at www.myprom.im.

The Loch Promenade walkway will continue to be used for vehicles with additional traffic and pedestrian barriers in place. The full length of the promenade will continue to be subject to a 20mph speed limit. Exit from the walkway will be at the Snack Shack café (formerly the TT café) just to the north of the Bottleneck car park.

Pedestrian access will be maintained along the promenade walkway with the exception of a short section on Harris Promenade, where a pedestrian diversion route will run in front of the Villa Marina.

Traffic lights will also be in place, for a distance of approximately 120 metres, between Castle Mona Avenue and The Esplanade.

Disabled parking and loading bays on the walkway will remain, and more parking will become available on the northern end.

Traffic will continue to access the promenade via Victoria Street for the foreseeable future.

As a further benefit, these changes will allow Auldyn Construction the opportunity to complete the works at the Broadway junction, including the decommissioning of the old 400mm cast iron gas main, in a more efficient manner. As the junction will now stay closed when it was going to reopen to traffic, albeit under four-way traffic light control, the construction of the new Broadway junction will be completed in its entirety and will be opened to traffic by the end October 2020.

Church Road Marina is unaffected by these changes and will reopen as planned in mid-November 2020.

Tim Baker MHK, Minister for the Department of Infrastructure said:

‘We are delighted that Summerhill will reopen next week. We have listened to the businesses and residents and are confident that, by reinstating the two-way traffic much earlier than planned, we will make life much easier for them all.’

‘While opening Broadway is important, the benefit of reinstating two-way traffic flow along the whole of Promenade was considered much more significant. We will continue to monitor all traffic management whilst progressing with the programme.’

‘The contractor and the Department continue to make good progress on the refurbishment scheme, but we are being flexible in our approach to making changes to traffic management if it provides support for businesses and residents who live and work along the promenade.’

160 spaces in Chester Street car park now two-hour disc parking

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 17:29:53 GMT

Disc parking will be available over two floors of Chester Street car park from 1 September 2020 in a change designed to improve access to Douglas town centre and support the local economy.

The measure is the first to be introduced since the Department of Infrastructure resumed control of the Chester Street and Drumgold Street car parks from Douglas Borough Council on Friday 14 August.

Creating more parking is seen as an effective way to attract more people into the town centre and supports the work being undertaken by the cross-government Economic Recovery Group in response to the current economic conditions.

In addition, residents affected by the Douglas Promenade Refurbishment Scheme will be given exclusive access to an entire floor of Chester Street car park – a total of 58 spaces - until the project is completed.

Chester Street car park floor designations:

Level 7 / 8 / 9 – Contract parking
Level 4 / 5 / 6 – Long stay pay and display
Level 2 / 3 – Two-hour disc parking
Level 1 – Promenade residents’ on-street parking permits

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘The changes announced today have been planned to help and support businesses and residents, in response to the issues caused by the decision to accelerate the Promenade scheme following the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.

‘We are listening to concerns and responding by finding ways to mitigate the inconvenience of the promenade one-way system and road closures. I am particularly pleased that we can now make available more than 160 extra disc parking spaces without charge, which will make it easier for people to access the shops and services in the town centre.’

Free parking is also available 6pm to 8am until further notice at Parade Street East and The Tongue car parks, which are run by the Department of Infrastructure.

No changes are currently planned to the operation of Drumgold Street car park.

Support for students to travel off-Island by air

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 15:57:23 GMT

The Isle of Man Government has worked with Loganair to make travel for students easier and more affordable.

Next month will see many Isle of Man students starting or returning to university in the UK and further afield. Due to the current border restrictions in place, journeys by car and ferry will require travellers to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return to the Isle of Man. This is likely to make the traditional trip of taking family members to university impractical.

Working with the Isle of Man Government, Loganair has introduced new student fares on the airline’s routes from the Isle of Man to Liverpool, Manchester and London City with immediate effect.

The new student fares – which can be booked as one-way or return journeys – include an enhanced checked baggage allowance of up to 30kgs which can be split across multiple items, a discount from the normal fare levels, and extra flexibility to change travel dates without incurring extra charges.

It is hoped that the enhancements to air travel with Loganair will mean that this is seen as a practical alternative for student travel.

Connecting flights are available to both Dublin and Belfast from a range of UK airports, although the Isle of Man Government has not been able to negotiate preferential terms with the airlines providing these.

Courier firms have also been contacted regarding the shipping of personal possessions to places of study in the UK and Ireland, and an updated list of those available has been provided on the Student Awards webpage.

Welcoming the move, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allison MHK, said:

'I know many of our students and their parents have had concerns about travelling to university for the start of the new academic year. I hope these practical arrangements will help make this much easier and more affordable.'

Minister for Infrastructure, Tim Baker MHK, added:

'We have been working with a range of airlines to ensure that throughout the health emergency our critical transport links were maintained and protected. I am glad that we are able to help our students start the next phase of their education across or go back to their course to continue their studies.'

The special student fares can be booked by contacting Loganair on 0333 800 2855. Proof of student eligibility such as a college or university placement offer letter may be required when booking. Details of the fares can be found on the airline’s website at www.loganair.co.uk/fares/for-students/.

Loganair took over operating the Isle of Man’s services to Liverpool and Manchester in March following the collapse of previous operator Flybe. More recently, it has been confirmed that Loganair will be assuming responsibility for the Isle of Man to London City air link from 1 September.

Isle of Man’s first hybrid buses ready to go into service

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 13:05:17 GMT

A total of 16 new buses recently arrived as part of the Isle of Man Government’s scheduled replacement programme, including the Island’s first hybrid vehicles.

The ongoing modernisation of the fleet is designed to significantly improve vehicle emissions, as well as enable used vehicles to be sold on while they are still in good condition.

Six Mercedes Citaro single deck low emission hybrid vehicles have been acquired with the aim of increasing sustainable forms of public transport, and in support of the Isle of Man Government’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The arrival of 10 double deck StreetDecks will see them replace 10 Volvo vehicles, stepping up emissions standards from Euro 5 to Euro 6.

All vehicles come fitted with WiFi and USB charging points.

The total investment was included in this year’s Budget as part of the rolling capital replacement programme and is around £3.7m.

Increased capacity for Borders team strengthens monitoring

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 11:57:50 GMT

Well over 600 residents have returned to the Island each week since the Government eased its Borders policy to allow non-essential travel off Island.

A total of 2559 residents arrived in the Island in the period 20 July - the date the Borders policy moved to Level 4 - and 12 August. Returning residents must self-isolate for 14 days on arrival.

Officers from the newly-formed Travel Notification Service are responsible for contacting residents by phone and in person once they are home, to monitor compliance with the requirement.

More than one in every three people self-isolating during the period received a phone call and 145 were visited. A recent increase in the number of officers authorised to make spot checks means all individuals currently in self-isolation will receive a call during their 14 day period.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle said:

‘We have great confidence that the vast majority of residents who return to the Island follow self-isolation rules to the letter, for the sake of the wider community. Our prolonged Covid-free status is the result of superb levels of compliance by the public during the pandemic and I am grateful for everyone’s efforts.

‘The new service requires significant resources and it has taken time to build capacity. We must ensure that the team is properly trained for the very specific job we want them to do. The Travel Notification Service swung into operation once we made the decision to move to level 4, but didn’t expect to be able to contact each individual from day one. Now that resources have been strengthened, everyone can expect to get a call and the number of home visits will increase.

The Chief Minister added:

‘I cannot over emphasise the importance to our Manx community that everyone who travels off Island must self-isolate when they return. This is our main defence against another outbreak of Covid-19 in the community. Spot checks are an important deterrent but they don’t provide a guarantee that people will comply for the full two week period. We rely on people’s honesty and willingness to do the right thing. The rules of engagement are clear and I urge anyone considering a trip off Island to understand the commitment required to stay home when they return.’

Each person returning to the Island receives a Direction Notice setting out the requirement for them to self-isolate. In addition to phone calls, unscheduled visits are made to the addresses of a randomly generated list of people required to self-isolate. If a person is not at their address and cannot be contacted - or is found to be in breach of the rules - officers will contact the police.

Members of the public who have concerns about an individual’s compliance with self-isolation can contact the Community Support and Information line on 686262.

The maximum penalty for breaching the requirements is on summary conviction, three months’ imprisonment and/or a fine not exceeding £10,000.

Slipway replacement project to take place in sensitive natural environment

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 10:09:15 GMT

A project to replace a slipway at Derbyhaven has been carefully assessed and designed to minimise the impact on the sensitive surrounding environment.

Work is due to get under way this week to replace the current slipway, used during emergencies and exercises at Isle of Man Airport, as it has reached the end of its useable life and is no longer suitable for the airport fire station’s rescue boat.

The slipway is located in an ecologically important area, within Langness, Sandwick and Derbyhaven Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and bird sanctuary, and Langness Marine Nature Reserve.

Derbyhaven bay is an intertidal mudflat and an extremely important feeding and roosting habitat for migrating and wintering wildfowl and waders.

Due to be completed by the end of September, the work has been scheduled to avoid creating a disturbance during the main migrating and wintering period, and bird breeding season.

Officers at the Department of Infrastructure have worked alongside the Fisheries and Ecosystem Policy teams at the Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture to establish processes, timescales and design.

The work will be overseen by an ecological clerk of works from the Manx Wildlife Trust, who will be employed to provide independent on-site monitoring and advice, and ensure that the ecological footprint of the work and risk of environmental damage is kept to a minimum.

The new slipway will be located away from the existing one in order to avoid damage to an area of saltmarsh which is a rare habitat on the Isle of Man. The current slipway will be demolished and the habitat restored to shingle beach.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘The development of this project has been a collaborative approach, both across government and with environmental stakeholders. This will lead to the best possible solution to meet the airport’s operational requirements whilst considering the needs of the surrounding area.

‘Much of DoI’s work is complex and often goes unseen, but the aim is always to provide the best outcome for the Island.

‘The Island’s UNESCO biosphere status is a crucial consideration, and the project at Derbyhaven is an example of delivering robust engineering solutions while minimising our impact on the environment and preserving the Island's outstanding natural assets for future generations.’

Chief Minister visits active travel sites

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:29:19 GMT

Last week (Friday 7 August) Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK was joined by Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK and officers from the Department of Infrastructure to visit some of the active travel sites to see the improvements that have been made.

Starting at the Quarterbridge and the site of the new pedestrian crossing the team travelled by e-bike along the Heritage Trail to Crosby. After stopping to see the bike nests in Crosby and to admire the first of a number of wood carvings by sculptor Tony Elder they continued to travel onto Glen Wyllin to visit the sites for the new bridges that will reconnect the former steam railway line.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

‘A great deal of work has been undertaken along the Heritage Trail. Taking the time to cycle between some of these points really did give me the opportunity to appreciate the scenery and the work that has been completed to date. I was particularly impressed with how much safer it is to cross at the Quarterbridge with the addition of the pedestrian crossing.

‘The work along the old steam railway line and the investment already made between Peel and Douglas will mean an active travel friendly route that stretches coast to coast as well as north to Kirk Michael, and in the future into Ramsey. This is sure to be a great asset to the Isle of Man both in terms of promoting active lifestyles and for attracting people to our Island.

‘Drawing many to the trail will be the beautiful wood carvings, based on Manx fairy tales that will line the route. I was pleased to be able to visit the carving of the Buggane that is already in position near St Trinian’s Church where it is famously said the Buggane of St Trinian’s ripped the roof off the church.’

He added:

‘Creating dedicated cycle paths and walkways will increase the opportunities for active travel by providing a safe and segregated environment. It will bring improvements to personal health and wellbeing and reduce our carbon emissions.’

Sessions to improve bike skills and improve confidence to encourage cycling as a mode of transport

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 16:28:44 GMT

The Isle of Man Government’s Bike 4 Life scheme restarted today (Friday 31 July) and looks to improve the confidence in people of all cycling abilities and encourage them to choose cycling as a viable option for commuting to work, school or other journeys.

The sessions will run each Friday throughout the summer period from 31 July to 4 September, excluding the bank holiday on 28 August, at the following times:

Open Session (all ages): 10am - 12 noon

Disability Cycling Session (children): 1:30 to 2:30pm

Cycling for confidence (children): 1:30 to 2:30pm

Sessions will teach bike skills in a safe, traffic free environment with qualified instructors providing guidance and expertise. The scheme is ideal for those looking to improve their activity levels and gain confidence to cycle on open roads or dedicated cycle paths. They are also designed for anyone with a disability or who might be recovering from an illness. Bicycles and helmets can be provided on request.

Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allinson MHK said:

‘For some, a barrier to take up cycling for commuting can be the confidence to use bikes on public roads. Together, the Department, Manx Sport and Recreation and the Isle of Man Constabulary Road Safety Team have put together a scheme that can help build the skill level and confidence in a controlled and safe manner that is inclusive of all ability levels.’

‘The best way to increase physical activity is by making it easy for people to be active within their daily routine. Using non-motorised means of getting from A to B is a great way to work light exercise around a busy work and home life.’

Minister for Infrastructure Tim Baker MHK added:

‘The Bike 4 Life scheme aligns perfectly with the ethos and values of the active travel strategy as we seek to create an island where cycling and walking are normal and realistic transport choices. Giving people the necessary bike skills will increase the use of our new dedicated cycling paths and provide them with the confidence to share our highways with other vehicles.

‘By actively travelling you not only gain the health benefits and cost savings but you also contribute to reducing congestion and lowering carbon emissions.’

To book a Bike 4 Life session visit https://msr.gov.im/nsc/online or ask at the main reception at the NSC. Each session costs £3.60, or £1.80 if you are in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and are held at the NSC Raceway.

For further information on the Bike 4 Life scheme contact Zoe Crowe on +44 1624 688575 or email Zoe.Crowe@gov.im for the open session and email Gareth Lloyd Gareth.Lloyd@gov.im for the children’s sessions.

Travel insurance essential for visitors to Guernsey

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 15:05:18 GMT

Isle of Man residents planning to visit Guernsey are reminded of the importance of having adequate travel and medical insurance when they travel off-Island.

An air bridge has been established between the Isle of Man and Guernsey to offer residents of both islands the opportunity to take a break elsewhere. Both jurisdictions are currently Covid-free, having had no confirmed cases of coronavirus over a prolonged period.

With the first flights scheduled for this Wednesday (22 July) travellers are reminded to check their insurance policies are up to date and will cover their needs, should they require health care or medical treatment, including emergency treatment, while visiting Guernsey.

While there is a reciprocal health agreement between the Isle of Man and the United Kingdom, the agreement does not include Guernsey. That means visitors require insurance to cover medical costs just as they would for other travel abroad.

Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford said:

‘Falling ill or being injured abroad can be an expensive business, and travellers heading to Guernsey need to have their insurance in order before they depart. Visitors to Guernsey can be billed for ambulance and paramedic costs and can be charged for consultations, diagnostic investigations and drugs, as well as for seeing a GP or a dentist. Hospital food and drink is also charged for – all in all, it could add up to a considerable bill, so it’s vital people check, renew or upgrade their travel insurance policies.

‘We want people to make the most of the air bridge and enjoy the opportunity for travel it provides. However, sometimes things do go wrong, so this is a timely reminder to ensure you have adequate cover.’

Residents should also confirm that their travel insurance covers the cost of repatriation – essential for all off-Island travel. If travel plans are interrupted due to an accident or ill health, it is the patient’s responsibility to arrange and pay for their transport back to the Isle of Man. While this might simply mean booking another flight home, the bill for an air ambulance and possibly clinical staff to accompany the patient, would be substantial.

Healthcare information for visitors to the Bailiwick of Guernsey.

Visitors from Guernsey to the Isle of Man will need similar insurance cover in place, in the event they become ill or need hospital treatment here, as all medical treatment will need to be paid for. Exclusions include treatment for a number of infectious diseases, which currently include Covid 19.

Level 4 borders entry system goes live

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 15:31:31 GMT

An online registration system to operate alongside the new borders policy, which allows Island residents to make non-essential journeys off Island, is now live.

From Monday 20 July Isle of Man residents can travel to the UK and beyond for any reason, providing they complete a registration process and are prepared to self-isolate for 14 days on their return.

Travellers will need to apply for a Manx Entry Permit for their return to the Island. This will request address and contact details along with a National Insurance number or tax reference number, to confirm the individual’s residency status. This is a one-off application with the permit remaining in place for future travel. The permit is not required to leave the Island - anyone is free to leave at any time.

In addition, returning residents must complete a Landing Form within 48 hours of starting their journey home. This will include a health declaration and the address where they will self-isolate for the required 14 day period when back on Island.

The Council of Ministers agreed to ease border restrictions in the light of falling numbers of coronavirus cases in the UK and in line with plans set out in the Borders Framework.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle said:

‘The partial relaxation of the closed borders policy recognises that people are anxious to visit loved ones, maintain business contacts or to have a break.

‘We said we would move from closed borders - Level 5 - to the next stage when the time is right. We regard the current Covid infection rate in England as acceptable for us to move to Level 4 and allow our residents more freedom. I am pleased we have reached this point but I would urge people to consider carefully what self-isolation means, as it is a big commitment over two weeks.

‘Our Borders Framework provides a phased ‘step-up, step-down’ approach, allowing us to relax or reinstate restrictions as the pandemic develops, and it is being kept under constant review.’

The registration process has been designed as swift and easy to use. Residents apply for the Manx Entry Permit online and will receive an automated confirmation straight away, if the information provided is correct. This will generate a reference number which will be needed for the Landing Form which travellers complete before arriving home. Authorised officers at the Sea Terminal and Airport will ask to see confirmation that the form has been completed.

There is no charge for Manx Entry Permits or Landing Forms and both are available via Online Services at the Isle of Man Government website.

Returning residents must go straight from the port of entry to their home or pre booked accommodation and self-isolate for 14 days. Guidance on what is required and information about checks to ensure people are complying with the rules is available on the Travel and Borders section of the Government’s website.

The Travel Notification service can be contacted by email at tns@gov.im or by phone on +44 1624 687171.

Isle of Man Railway returns for summer period

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 12:56:46 GMT

The Isle of Man’s heritage rail network will partially reopen next week to coincide with the first visitors from Guernsey and the beginning of the school summer holidays. The service was stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the summer tourist season.

The Isle of Man Steam Railway will re-open to passengers, Thursday to Sunday each week, from 23 July to 13 September.

The Dining Car will be back in operation, Thursday to Sunday, from 30 July with a number of new events planned.

The Manx Electric Railway will re-open, Saturday to Tuesday each week, from 25 July to 13 September.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘Despite the very limited visitor market we recognise the important and distinctive role the Heritage Railways plays in the Isle of Man experience, so we have taken the decision to reintroduce the MER and Steam Railway for the summer season. The railways bring a holiday feel to the Island and I am sure this news will be well received by Manx residents and visitors from Guernsey alike.

‘It’s a limited four day a week timetable that coincides with the opening of the Laxey Wheel and other Manx National Heritage attractions around the Island on selected days over the summer.’

He added:

‘I hope this will bring a degree of normality to the 2020 summer period and an opportunity for people to use the railways and see the Island in a unique way. Our railways team is very happy to be welcoming you back.’

Due to financial and operational challenges the Snaefell Mountain Railway will not be in operation during the summer 2020 season.

Return lane to be added to the Douglas Promenade one-way system to help businesses

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:21:59 GMT

Isle of Man Government is adding a return lane to Douglas Promenade that will help businesses on the south end of the Promenade by allowing northbound traffic to return south along the walkway.

Running from the access point used for walkway parking at Christmas through to the Sea Terminal, cars will be able to return alongside the Sea Wall in a fully coned segregated area, leaving over ten metres of width for other users.

The measure will help businesses make their deliveries and enable customers to be dropped off or picked up by car or taxi.

Infrastructure Minster Tim Baker MHK said:

‘We are committed to getting the Promenade done and we will be getting it done by the end of March so we can make a success of next year’s visitor season. I am very aware that this comes with short term impacts and will do what I can to help without compromising the delivery of the scheme.

‘The return lane will help residents and businesses at the south end of the Prom; those at the north end can use Empress Drive or Port Jack to return south. Meanwhile we are retaining most of the walkway for use by pedestrians, cyclists and, if necessary, the emergency services. We announced the changes to Marina Road and Summerhill in early June and have plenty of time to install the return lane next week so it is ready when the closures take place later this month.

‘The Department remains willing to adapt its plans in the light of experience and feedback, provided this can be done without affecting the delivery of the scheme. For example we recently extended the left turn lane at St Ninian’s and added a cyclist advance stop line to help this junction cope better with the 10,000 extra cars a day heading south.

‘The Department will continue to make what changes it can to support local businesses and residents. I am currently reviewing the provision of parking in Douglas and plan to use the imminent return of both Chester Street and Drumgold Street car parks to our management to help those affected by the Promenade works.’

Manx borders policy to move from Level 5 to Level 4

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 17:11:17 GMT

The Council of Ministers has agreed that, from Monday 20 July, we will move from Level 5 to Level 4 in the Isle of Man Borders Framework.

Isle of Man Borders Framework.

This will enable Island residents to visit the UK and beyond if they are prepared to self-isolate for 14 days on their return, and will replace the repatriation process.

Isle of Man residents who wish to return to the Island from Monday 20 July must have a Manx Entry Permit, granted by demonstrating residency via an online application process. Access for non-residents will remain tightly restricted.

This permit is not required to leave the Island - anyone is free to leave at any time.

But after Monday 20 July 2020, Island residents must have a Manx Entry Permit in place to ensure they can return, and must complete an online Landing Form within a 48-hour period prior to travelling back to the Island in order to provide arrival details.

These details will include the address at which you will be isolating on your return, as well as your contact number, and you will also be required to make a health declaration.

It is important to be aware that the restrictions on anyone entering the Island will remain unchanged. A period of 14 days’ self-isolation is mandatory for everyone and this must be carefully considered before deciding to travel.

Random and unscheduled checks will be made on those returning to the Island to ensure they are adhering to self-isolation and helping to protect the wider Island community.

Applications for Manx Entry Permits will open next week and will be available via Online Services at the Isle of Man Government website.

Improvements to the Nunnery footpath will provide a safe and enjoyable route for walking and cycling

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 13:17:23 GMT

Work is now completed on improving the Nunnery footpath. Improvements include removal of obstructions, such as undergrowth and debris, resurfacing and drainage to provide an even surface and prevent build-up of standing water and the widening of some sections to allow adequate space.

The footpath has now reopened and is an alternative route to joining the cycle lane on Peel Road from Old Castletown Road. It will allow active commuters another option to travel towards the centre of Douglas. The pathway goes through a quiet picturesque area of Douglas making it ideal for commuting and for recreation alike.

Following the opening of the Heritage Trail and the addition of the pedestrian crossing at the Quarterbridge, as part of the Active Travel Strategy, this is another section of dedicated walk/cycle path connecting Peel and Douglas.

Infrastructure Minister, Tim Baker MHK said:

‘The route was in need of clearing to make it a safer and more enjoyable path. Providing dedicated walking and cycling routes into Douglas will encourage more people to use the route, especially those who may feel less confident travelling on shared roads.

‘It is an important part of the Active Travel Strategy that we create routes that are usable and safe with minimal requirements for additional specialist equipment or clothing.

‘We will continue to work with Island schools, businesses and residents as we move towards an Island where cycling and walking are normal and realistic transport choices for people of all ages and abilities.’

Statement: Glencrutchery Road bus and cycle lane

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 14:00:01 GMT

The installation of a bus and cycle lane on Glencrutchery Road in Douglas is a temporary measure to help southbound traffic flows, and is among a series of changes in place while the promenade is one-way north-bound between Victoria Road and Summerhill.

Cyclists and bus passengers are being given priority in line with Isle of Man Government commitments to Climate Change and Active Travel, and on creating attractive places for people to live and work.

The new layout is being monitored while motorists become used to the change, and will be subject to review if deemed necessary.

A change requiring motorists to use the dip at the Governor’s Hill/Victoria Road has been reviewed this morning and will be amended overnight.

Other changes have seen four lanes reduced to three at the Main Road-Avondale Road junction in Onchan in order to reduce queueing from the Laxey direction, while traffic signals at multiple locations have been modified to ease the flow of traffic.

Bus vannin Service Update

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 11:43:41 GMT

From 15 June 2020 bus vannin will be operating a special Summer 2020 timetable. This timetable will be in place until 7 September 2020.

Main changes:

On the Service 1 group serving Onchan, Douglas and the South the 15 minute service frequency is restored
Due to the one way system on Douglas Promenade a new Service 30 has been introduced, which will provide the most direct link between Central and Queens Promenades, Derby Castle, Port Jack and Royal Avenue to Lower Douglas every 15 minutes
For those travelling from Hailwood Avenue, Willaston, Birch Hill and Central Onchan to the Promenades it will be necessary to travel to Victoria Street and change for a northbound promenade service which operates up to every 7½ minutes. A transfer ticket should be requested on boarding to use the free onward connection.

Some school buses will resume on 22 June 2020. Further details will follow.

The public are requested to please continue to use contactless or a Go Card if possible.

Go Cards can be purchased and topped-up at bus.im, or at the following locations and times:

	Monday - Friday	Saturday	Sunday
Lord Street Old Police Station	09:00 - 18:00	09:00 - 17:00	CLOSED
Port Erin Railway Station	08:00 - 16:00	CLOSED	CLOSED
Peel, Derby Lodge (50 m down from the Town Hall)	10:30 - 15:30	CLOSED	CLOSED
Ramsey Bus Station	06:30 - 17:00	06:30 - 13:00	08:30 - 13:00

Douglas Promenade Scheme update

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 16:53:04 GMT

The Isle of Man Government, working in partnership with its main construction contractor Auldyn Construction Ltd, has developed a new Promenade programme to allow the highway works along the Douglas Promenade to be delivered more quickly.

The ambitious programme seeks to take advantage of the low traffic volumes due to COVID-19 restrictions and the likelihood of there being limited holiday visitors during the summer of 2020. The aim is to make sure that the works are completed before the 2021 visitor season so that businesses along the Promenades can have the best possible chance to recover from the challenges created by COVID-19.

The new programme will mean that the Promenade highway will be complete by the end of March 2021 so that all construction works are removed from the Prom before the season starts. Over the following winter the tram track will be completed.

Two key decisions have been taken to achieve this new programme. Firstly, some of the constraints imposed on the scheme are being relaxed. Secondly, some elements of the scope of the work are being delivered in a new way or delayed until the following winter.

The changed constraints mean that a one-way system from Victoria Street through to Summerhill will be in place from Monday 15 June 2020 until the end of the school summer holidays. There will be associated closures at various times on side roads such as Church Road Marina, Broadway and Summer Hill. Broadway and Church Road Marina will be closed at the same time for six weeks. To help traffic moving southbound there will be adjustments to key junctions in Onchan and Douglas. The new traffic management details are outlined on www.myprom.im and on www.gov.im

The site’s operating hours will now be from 07.30am-6.30pm on weekdays and from 07.30am to 3.30pm on Saturdays. There may be some work on some Sundays. Some of the noisier activities will not start until 8am.

There will be limited parking along the highway on the Promenade during the summer but this will be fully reinstated as soon as possible. The Promenade walkway will not be open for parking as it will be used for emergency vehicles from 15 June.

The scope of the project has been reduced by two temporary changes intended to make sure that it is ready by 31 March 2021.

The first major change will be that the horse tram track line from Broadway through to the Bottleneck will not be laid until the winter of 2021-22. The route of the tramway will be temporarily replaced with landscaping.

The second change is that the roundabouts at the bottom of Broadway and Church Road will for now be finished in an enhanced tarmac construction. This will save a number of months on the programme. The high quality pedestrian crossings close to the roundabouts will still be finished in block paving as part of the main works but the two roundabouts will be updated with paviours as part of the later works.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘This is the Government’s most significant refurbishment scheme and we are determined to deliver a new gateway to the Isle of Man. COVID-19 has changed this scheme, like everything else, so bringing in additional resource and deferring parts of the scheme until after the tourist season for 2021 is the right decision for the Isle of Man. I am certain that I want the works to be off the Prom by the end of March but equally certain that I want the tramway to be completed to the Sea Terminal before the 2022 season in line with the express will of Tynwald.

‘This approach gives the businesses on the Promenade and the Island as a whole the opportunity to regroup and bounce back ready for the 2021 season. This decision demonstrates the commitment of this Government to support our businesses and our economy.

‘We will continue to liaise with all residents and businesses along the length of Douglas Promenade to address any concerns or offer assistance.’