Isle of Man Travel, Traffic and Motoring News

Changes to Island’s border restrictions to reflect UK travel requirements

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 13:05:30 GMT

Changes to the Island’s border restrictions have come into effect to reflect simplified rules for international arrivals into England, announced last month by the UK Government.

The current red, amber, green traffic light system has been replaced with countries being either on the red list or the rest of the world list. The rules in place for people travelling to England and onward to the Isle of Man from countries not on the red list will depend on vaccination status.

The Council of Ministers has decided that the Isle of Man will continue to broadly align its own border restrictions for international travel with those in place in England. This will ensure the process for Isle of Man residents travelling internationally into England and then back to the Island remains as simple as possible.

It means the existing ‘test to release’ pathway will no longer be available for those who have travelled outside of the Common Travel Area (CTA) in the 10 days prior to arriving on the Island. All unvaccinated individuals who have been outside of the CTA will now follow one pathway.

Fully vaccinated residents and fully vaccinated non-residents who have travelled outside of the CTA within the preceding 10 days of arrival to the Island will still be allowed to enter the Island with no testing or isolation.

Non- or partially-vaccinated residents as well as non-residents who have permission to travel to the Island, who have travelled outside of the CTA within the preceding 10 days of arrival, will be required to follow the ‘7-day pathway’. This involves a PCR test on the day of arrival, isolation for 7 days and a further test on day 6 which, if negative, means release from isolation.

Any person travelling from a country on the red list within the preceding 10 days to arrival on the Island is still prohibited from entry to Island and must follow the UK’s red list requirements.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle said:

‘After the initial opening of our borders earlier this year, our defences for COVID-19 have relied on that of the England’s border policy. Therefore, it makes sense to adjust our own pathways to maintain alignment with measures in England. The removal of the green and amber lists is a significant step forward, making it easier for people to go abroad and return home.

‘Individuals who are transiting through the UK following international travel are reminded that they need to complete a passenger locator form and state they are transiting through to the Isle of Man.’

As part of the changes, the UK Government has also removed the need for pre-departure testing for those returning to the England, reducing the cost for travellers.

Full details of the Island’s travel pathways can be found on the Travel and Borders webpage.

The changes are only for international travel. The rules for those travelling within the CTA in the 10 days before their arrival in the Isle of Man will not change.

Additionally, all 12-15 year olds who have received at least one vaccination dose are now eligible to arrive in the Isle of Man with no isolation or testing requirements, following the commencement of the vaccine programme to this age group.

In order to qualify for this, individuals must meet the following conditions:

Have received the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine
On arrival, at least two weeks must have passed since the vaccine was administered
Applicants must not have visited any country on the UK red travel list in the 10 days prior to their arrival

For young people aged 15 and under, parents or guardians will be required to complete the vaccination exemption on their behalf.

£9m project delivers firm footing for Isle of Man Airport

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:40:58 GMT

A £9 million project to strengthen and resurface large areas of the taxiway, aircraft parking stands and cross runway at Isle of Man Airport has been completed on time and within budget.

More than 45,000 hours were worked during the project which took place over two phases.

It delivered 500 square metres of high strength concrete along with 70,000 square metres of surfacing, and used 20,000 tons of aggregate from Poortown Quarry.

The first phase was undertaken by Colas (IoM) Ltd between October 2019 and March 2020. The contractor successfully replaced the time-expired existing asphalt surface on aircraft parking stands 7 and 8 with high strength concrete, to support the 97-ton weight of an easyJet Airbus A321.

The second phase was initially delayed from 2020 due to the pandemic, but once work commenced in spring 2021 the contract was delivered ahead of programme and within budget, between March and September.

Work involved the successful strengthening and resurfacing of the short cross runway and the main taxiway parallel with the main runway, along with widening the starter strips at each end of the main runway and other small resurfacing and repair works. Runway and taxiway lighting renewal included the installation of LED lighting on the cross runway.

The second-phase contractor was UK-based Lagan Aviation and Infrastructure Ltd which utilised nearly 60% on-island staff and sub-contractors.

Rob Callister MHK, Member of the Department of Infrastructure with responsibility for Ports, said:

‘This type of work is essential to the smooth running of transport connections to and from the Isle of Man and will place us on a firm footing for many years to come.

‘The project has been a great example of teamwork and planning and I congratulate all those involved. Both contractors have engaged and collaborated with the Department and its consultants to ensure the end product for our airline partners is of the highest standard.

‘Working in such a challenging environment is never easy and praise must also go the team at the Airport who have accommodated the project and maintained compliance with stringent operational and security requirements throughout.’

Island schools to hold active travel week

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 16:46:31 GMT

Schools around the Isle of Man will be taking part in an Active Travel Week from Monday 27 September to Friday 1 October.

Coinciding with the UK-wide Bike to School Week, a series of events will be taking place to motivate pupils and families to think about how they travel to and from school.

Pupils will be encouraged to choose walking, cycling, scooting or any other means of active travel whenever possible during the week, for part if not all of their journeys.

The benefits of active travel are wide-ranging, from improving physical and mental health, to ensuring young people arrive feel relaxed, alert and ready for the school day. Reducing car journeys has a positive impact on air quality and congestion around schools, and saves money on fuel costs.

Teachers will incorporate active travel into lessons during the week and there will be a series of workshops running in a number of schools, covering road safety to bike maintenance and skateboarding, involving the Isle of Man Constabulary’s Road Safety Team, mechanics from Bikestyle, Cycle 360, Erin Bike Hut, Eurocycles, Outdoors Ramsey, and Tyred and Cranky, as well as instructors from The Shred House.

There will also be active travel assemblies in schools and surveys of schools’ local areas to suggest improvements that would enable safer and easier active travel routes.

Teachers will be able to nominate pupils for prizes during the week, rewarding active travel first timers through to those with the highest active mileage, as well as recognising success in classroom projects and workshops.

Breeshey Harkin, the Isle of Man Government’s Active Travel Liaison Officer, said:

‘We look forward to celebrating the many benefits an active school run brings with Active Travel Week, taking us a step closer to active travel becoming a normal and realistic transport choice for young people on our Island.

‘We’re hoping that this hands-on workshop approach will help our pupils and families understand the benefits of active travel, and encourage them to take the steps towards making it a regular alternative to the school run.’

Families are encouraged to plan safe routes to school with their children and ensure they have appropriate equipment; they may also consider teaming up with other families to share supervision duties on active travel journeys.

Visiting private vessels can now arrive at Peel at set times

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 17:00:28 GMT

Passengers aboard private vessels who wish to visit the Isle of Man after entering its territorial waters can now do so at Peel harbour in addition to Douglas.

Travel Notification Service (TNS) officers have published set time slots during which they will meet vessels at Peel harbour and process Landing Forms.

These slots will vary depending on the state of the tide, the opening times of the flap gate at Peel and commercial arrivals in Douglas, but will be available each day for a minimum of two hours. The slots are published online.

Passengers must either be Isle of Man residents or meet the entry criteria that is currently in place for non-residents.

Any private vessel that arrives at Peel outside of the advertised times will not be met by TNS officers. Passengers will not be able to disembark and the vessel will be required to either dock in Douglas or to wait in Peel harbour until the next advertised time slot.

All passengers must notify the TNS of the date and time of their arrival. This should be done by completing a Landing Form online within the 48 hour period before arriving on the Island. The Landing Form should be completed.

Any private vessel wishing to dock at Peel harbour must, in addition to notifying the TNS, inform the Marine Operations Centre of their arrival, who will direct them where to berth in Peel - call +44 1624 686612 or email marineoperationscentre.doi@gov.im

For further information, contact the TNS team on +44 1624 687171, or email travel@gov.im

Natural immunity pathway brought in for travel to the Island

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 18:04:41 GMT

Along with the new border changes announced last week, residents and non-residents can now travel to the Isle of Man under a ‘natural immunity’ pathway.

Anyone who provides proof of a positive PCR COVID-19 test on arriving in the Isle of Man can now be made exempt from testing by proving they’ve been infected within the previous six months.

The new immunity exemption will be in place from 00:01 Thursday 16 September, and applies to residents and non-residents who enter this pathway on arrival.

Evidence of previous infection must be provided through PCR test confirmation, and at least 11 days must have elapsed since the previous positive result.

The exemption is only applicable to confirmed cases that have occurred within the Common Travel Area. The affected individual must also have remained within the Common Travel Area for the 10 days prior to arrival on the Island.

The approach follows guidance issued by the European Centre on Disease Control and mirrors COVID status certification in the UK and other parts of the world. Evidence from a number of studies point towards protection from reinfection for a number of months. And while people can remain positive for 10 days after diagnosis, they are unlikely to carry infectious viral particles after 10 days.

The Travel and Borders section of the COVID website will be updated to reflect the changes when they come in at midnight.

The exemption will not be applicable retrospectively meaning anyone already in isolation or booked for testing will continue to do so.

Isle of Man Railways season continues through October

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 16:30:46 GMT

The Isle of Man Steam Railway, Manx Electric Railway and Snaefell Mountain Railway will continue to run until the end of October, serving passengers five days a week.

Director of Transport Services Ian Longworth said:

‘Thank you for supporting the railways over the summer - we have been pleased by the number of locals and tourists that have enjoyed them so far and want to remind everyone that our services continue, including the popular dining car events and Transport Festival.

‘Bookings are also open for our exclusive dining car and Santa experiences over the Christmas period, which include a host of old favourites and some exciting new events. These feature in the timetable, with more detail available from next week.’

For further information, visit www.rail.im, call 662525 or pick up a timetable from any station.

New ‘Isle of Man Resident Pathway’ removes requirement for testing and isolation

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:51:15 GMT

Border controls that are currently in place for Isle of Man residents will be eased from Thursday 16 September, as part of the Council of Ministers commitment to restoring unrestricted travel between the Island and the British Isles once the majority of the population have been fully vaccinated.

There will no longer be any testing or isolation requirements for Isle of Man residents when they return from travel from within the Common Travel Area (‘CTA’), regardless of vaccination status.

The change streamlines the current two-stage exemption form process to provide a more efficient service – with just a landing form required for entry. All travellers will continue to be strongly advised to undertake home testing using lateral flow devices tests every 3 – 4 days upon return.

For residents who have been outside the CTA in the preceding 10 days, the current process will remain the same, with arrivals from amber countries undertaking the ‘7 day pathway’ and red countries following UK travel requirements prior to onward travel to the Isle of Man.

At this stage, restrictions on unvaccinated non-residents will remain in place, but under review. Chief Minister Howard Quayle said:

‘Our aim has always been to restore travel between the Island and the British Isles as soon as safely possible, and these changes mark a further incremental step forwards for Isle of Man residents.

‘At this stage, the Council of Ministers has stopped short of removal of restrictions on unvaccinated non-residents given that we wish to assess the impact of these latest changes first, however we will keep this under review and we look forward to welcoming more visitors as soon as possible.’

The Council of Ministers has also released a document which details the strategic approach for managing COVID-19 in the medium term. The ‘Learning to Live in a World with COVID-19’ document is intended to outline current considerations and rationale for Government decision making over the next 1 – 3 months, ahead of the next administration.

The approach recognises that, while the vaccination programme has contributed significantly to the Island’s defences, the virus continues to represent a threat to Island life particularly if a new variant which evades vaccines emerges and spreads.

To read the Isle of Man Government Approach to Managing COVID-19 document, visit: https://covid19.gov.im/covidstrategy

Over 260 cars booked for inaugural Festival of Motoring

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:46:45 GMT

Visit Isle of Man, an Executive Agency within the Department for Enterprise, has worked with local accommodation providers and Scenic Car Tours, the UK’s leading tour operator for driving enthusiasts, to create a new holiday package to celebrate the Island’s motorsport heritage.

Due to take place over 17-20th September 2021, the new event will see car enthusiasts from around the UK visit the Island for an array of festival events and unique driving experiences, including an optional Gala Dinner on the Saturday evening.

Rob Callister, Political Member with responsibility for tourism and motorsport, commented:

‘Operating in a highly competitive market, the Agency has been working hard to establish new partnerships with UK travel providers in order to attract more visitors to the Isle of Man. Scenic Car Tours have been a fantastic partner to work with, bringing years of experience and a vast network of potential new visitors to market to.’

‘This exciting new car event will make the most of our Island’s enviable motorsport heritage as well as extend the visitor season into the autumn months. I encourage all islanders to get out and about over the weekend to view and admire more than 260 visiting cars and to give the visitors a warm of Manx welcome.’

Angela Byrne, Head of Visit Isle of Man, added:

‘Events are a key pillar of the Agency’s Strategic Plan, and particularly post-COVID they will play an important part in increasing visitor growth. With the cancellation of significant summer events this year and last the Agency now has even more impetus to develop our events calendar to not only reach new markets, but to extend our tourism season beyond the peak months.’

Bob Cole, Sales and Product Director, Scenic Car Tours, commented:

‘We’re extremely excited to finally get this show on the road, having had to cancel the inaugural event last year due to the ongoing pandemic. We have already taken bookings for over 260 cars and with a few weeks left to go, we are now expecting bookings for the event to exceed 300 cars; including a 1951 Jaguar XK120, 1957 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, 1953 Austin Healey and 62 Morgan’s who are the Marque of Honour for this year’s event.’

‘Ourselves, the drivers and their fellow passengers are all really looking forward to this exciting, new event and we are confident that it will quickly become a firm fixture on the Isle of Man’s calendar of events for many years to come.’

The event runs from 17-20th September 2020. Isle of Man residents can also take part in the festival via one of the ‘Event Only’ packages. Package and ticket information is available at www.sceniccartours.com/iom-festival-of-motoring

Balthane junction options available to view online

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 17:52:38 GMT

Plans to create a new road layout at Balthane junction in Ballasalla are now available to view online.

A well-attended public meeting was held last night at Ballasalla Village Hall, when officers from the Department of Infrastructure presented a series of options to accommodate a future route between Balthane junction and a new roundabout at Glashen Hill, north of Ballasalla.

These included a roundabout, a signalised junction and two further options involving the creation of a short link north of Balthane junction to connect with the proposed new road.

Feedback taken from the session will now be considered before plans are developed and displayed ahead of a formal planning application being submitted.

Views are still being invited and can be submitted by email to tom.creer@gov.im or by post to Tom Creer, Highway Services, Department of Infrastructure, Sea Terminal Douglas IM1 2RF until Friday 10 September.

The plans can be found online by visiting gov.im/infrastructure and clicking the link to Current and Future Projects. They will also be available to view at the Sea Terminal in Douglas and Malew Commissioners Offices from Monday 23 August.

Views sought on bus travel for disabled people

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 11:22:58 GMT

A consultation has been launched today (Monday 16 August) which aims to inform the improvement of bus travel for disabled people.

The short survey covers a total of 10 questions which seek to gather information from people with a disability, their carers and families around accessibility, existing barriers to bus travel, and how services and facilities may be improved.

The consultation document is available to view on the Government website and may also be downloaded electronically from consult.gov.im

Alternatively, written comments can be emailed to sian.christian@gov.im or by post to Sian Christian, Central Support & Change Division, Department of Infrastructure, Sea Terminal, Douglas, IM1 2RF.

The process will run for six weeks and conclude on Monday 27 September 2021.

The new consultation follows one held earlier this year by the Department of Infrastructure which gathered information on concessionary fares. Feedback is currently being considered with a view to bringing forward modernised legislation to Tynwald for approval before the end of the year.

Kirk Michael’s red zebras to address community and TT safety needs

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 16:38:03 GMT

Red-and-black zebra crossings are being installed in Kirk Michael in response to community wishes for more formal pedestrian crossings, while accommodating Isle of Man TT safety requirements.

The work is included as part of a maintenance project which is currently underway.

Two crossings of this type will be installed – one at Michael School near Douglas Road corner, and a second near the Baltic Road/Balleira Road junction which will serve Cannan Court sheltered housing complex.

Department of Infrastructure officers explored several options after consultation with the community and Michael Commissioners, and this new style of crossing creates a satisfactory balance between the needs of the village and those of race organisers.

The Isle of Man TT Mountain Course currently has no zebra crossings due to the white paint markings causing a lack of grip for accelerating motorcycles.

But a compromise has been reached in this instance which will result in the white crossing markings being replaced with red asphalt – which has the same grip as normal asphalt – while the zigzag markings on the either side of the crossing will remain white.

Although they appear different, the new additions will have the same legal status as standard crossings and should be treated by drivers in exactly the same way, with vehicles giving way to pedestrians.

If they are successful, it may be an approach that can be used in other suitable locations around the course.

A Traffic Regulation Order is in the process of being progressed, with a notice appearing in this week’s Isle of Man Courier in accordance with the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1985.

Comments should be sent to highwayregulations@gov.im or by post to Regulations, Highway Services, Sea Terminal, Douglas, IM1 2RF on or before Friday 6 August 2021.

Government asked to bring changes to COVID-19 rules back to Tynwald for another vote

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 12:56:47 GMT

A vote in Tynwald yesterday meant that a number of changes the Government had proposed to the Island’s COVID-19 regulations were not able to be debated or voted on.

The revisions included a number of proposals to:

Open up travel to the Isle of Man from countries on England’s green and amber lists
Exempt children aged 11 and under from testing and isolation
Recognise additional vaccines that have received regulatory approval
Remove the requirement for self-isolation exit tests.

Due to the vote in Tynwald, it means that – as things stand – the rule changes will not come into effect on Saturday, as hoped.

The Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

'Overnight, a number of members of Tynwald have approached ministers to request that the Government again brings forward the proposed changes to the Island’s COVID-19 regulations. The Council of Ministers has agreed to do so.

'I hope those members of Tynwald who were unsure, or who wanted to more fully consider the proposals, have had the time they need. The changes we are proposing broadly reflect a workshop with Tynwald members held on 8 July.

'If Tynwald votes the same as yesterday, then I must be clear that the changes proposed will not be brought forward.'

The Supplementary Order Paper is available on Tynwald's website.

Full details of the proposals are available at the news release 'Tynwald approval sought for proposed changes to COVID-19 regulations' published on 20 July 2021

Tynwald statement covers comprehensive update on Douglas Promenade

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 09:13:46 GMT

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK today delivered a comprehensive statement on the Douglas Promenade project during the final Tynwald sitting of the current administration.

The wide-ranging statement covered the history of the scheme, explaining the challenges faced by a number of his predecessors in getting it off the ground, and paid tribute to those who have helped deliver it.

Minister Baker said:

‘We started this scheme something like 15 years ago. It has featured in the Pink Book since 2007. More than any other scheme, what we have been doing has been done in the full glare of public scrutiny. We are working in the very heart of our Island to give us the new front door that will welcome our visitors and delight our residents.

‘I acknowledge that businesses on the Douglas Promenades have suffered as a result of the scheme. Additional staff were engaged to help liaise with businesses, and the Department for Enterprise put in place financial and marketing support packages.

‘I am very grateful to those who kept their eye on the value that the finished scheme would add to their business and their town. I am also pleased that units in the Villa Marina Arcade are now reported to be in great demand.’

With work scheduled to be completed by the end of September, the Minister highlighted the efforts taking place to ensure this deadline is met, how the total spend is expected to exceed budget by £3m and how this will be met.

Minister Baker said:

‘In the end, the project will cost more than originally planned. I expect that the total will exceed the budget by about £3m. I am not at this point asking for a supplementary vote.

‘Firstly, I have secured the support of Treasury to use £1.69m of funds from other DoI highways capital budgets that we were struggling to spend due to pressure on the construction sector. We chose to add to the cost of some elements of the prom and it is right that we find the money for that.

‘Secondly, once the full cost of COVID on the scheme has been calculated according to the contract we will seek Treasury support for contingency funding for that element. I see this as a genuine case of needing contingency funds - even our harshest critics would not seek to lay the blame for COVID at DOI’s door.

‘I am predicting that the COVID cost will be £1.5m, but that cannot be finalised until the scheme is done.’

Read Minister Baker's statement in full: 2021 July Tynwald statement Minister Baker Douglas Promenade

Roadworks in the vicinity of the Noble's Hospital site beginning soon

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 09:34:46 GMT

Anyone visiting the Noble’s Hospital site in the coming weeks should leave adequate time to get to their appointment or meeting as a result of planned roadworks in the Braddan area.

On Monday, 26 July the Department of Infrastructure (DOI) begins a six-week programme of work to upgrade Braddan Road from its junction at Braddan Bridge up to the roundabout at the junction with Ballafletcher Road. As a result, Braddan Road will be made one-way from Braddan Bridge in the direction of Noble’s Hospital so that ambulances and other emergency vehicles can reach the hospital, Mount Rule and Strang areas quickly.

At the same time, work will be taking place to re-surface the overflow car park on the Noble’s site – this is the car park over by Vagabonds Rugby Club. This work shouldn’t last for more than ten days, and will be done as quickly as possible to minimise disruption. It needs to be done at this time to allow for the new surface to settle in warm weather.

The combination of both programmes of work means that it may take extra time to reach Noble’s, and also to find car parking on the site.

Barbara Scott, Director of Infrastructure for Manx Care, commented:

'Whilst the school summer holiday is the most sensible time for the Department of Infrastructure to deliver this work, it could impact people accessing the Noble’s site at peak times and so it’s important people with an appointment plan ahead and leave adequate time to get there – and park safely. Please think carefully about where you park and don’t block any entrances or exits – this could really impact one of our emergency or service vehicles from getting where it needs to quickly.'

People leaving the Noble’s site travelling South or West will be diverted via Strang Road. People leaving the Noble’s site travelling back towards the Douglas area or North will be diverted along Ballafletcher Road, and then diverted via Tromode Road or Ballanard Road.

Addressing inequality around concessionary travel fares

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 17:41:58 GMT

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK today informed Tynwald Members how his Department is addressing inequality issues around the granting of concessionary travel fares.

In a statement delivered at the July sitting, Minister Baker announced changes informed by a four-week consultation exercise held earlier this year, which attracted 863 responses.

From August 1, Gold card holders will be able to retain their cards beyond retirement age, rather than be issued with Go Silver cards. Applications will also be welcomed immediately from former Go Gold card holders, whose expired cards were replaced with a Go Silver card.

In addition, Minister Baker stated his Department’s commitment to modernise legislation and bring a formal Concessionary Travel Scheme to Tynwald later this year.

Minister Baker’s statement in full:

Dear Mr President, Honourable Members,

I would like to update you on the commitment I made on 15th February 2021, to review the policies applicable to the issuing of concessionary fares on public transport, and lay a new Concessionary Travel Scheme before Tynwald, as provided for by the Isle of Man Passenger Transport Act 1982 (as amended) by the Concessionary Travel Schemes Act 2016.

This commitment arose from an identified need to address an equality issue regarding the Go Gold disability travel concession, which discriminates against people with a disability, and is contrary to the requirements of the Equality Act 2017.

The current policy position is that eligibility for a Go Gold travel concession card is linked to eligibility for a Go Silver senior travel concession card. When a Go Gold card holder reaches the age of eligibility for a Go Silver card, the Gold card expires, and the card holder applies for a Go Silver card. The current age of eligibility for a Go Silver travel card is 64. This been increasing over a number of years, and will align with state pension age by 2025.

In progressing the Concessionary Travel Scheme, my Department undertook a four week consultation during the period 20th April – 18th May 2021. The consultation generated significant public interest, and received a total of 863 responses.

It is clear to me that this consultation has identified some significant issues that I will need to address with the Ministers of the various social policy Departments. That will take time, but I do not want to allow the current Go Gold card situation to continue while we resolve the wider issues.

To that end, the Department will change its concessionary fares policy from August 2021 to allow Go Gold card disability concessions to continue past retirement. Applications will be welcomed from former Go Gold travel card holders, whose expired cards were replaced with a Go Silver travel concession card. New Go Gold cards will be issued to these applicants subject to meeting the disability concessionary travel criteria.

I can also confirm to Honourable Members that a formal Concessionary Travel Scheme will be laid before Tynwald later this year, in accordance with the enabling powers in the Isle of Man Passenger Transport Act 1982 (as amended).

The formal scheme will regularise the legal position regarding concessionary fares, which is based on a 1983 Scheme that was approved by Tynwald, and amended in 1987. The Scheme required half fares to be charged for pensioners and disabled people, who were defined with reference to s27.1 of the National Assistance (IOM) Act 1951 and which contained very outdated definitions.

The phased approach I have outlined here today will ensure that the identified equality issues are addressed imminently, whilst ensuring that sufficient time is given to meeting the Public Sector Equality Duty and to completing the exercise in a fully considered manner.

In the meantime, I hope that Members can be reassured that progress is being made in identifying, and addressing this very important issue.

Funding sought to progress ferry terminal project

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 10:54:07 GMT

Tynwald Members will be asked at this month’s sitting to approve an additional £13.8m to enable progress to continue on the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool.

The sum is required to address a number of issues which have arisen since the project to build the terminal at Prince’s Half-Tide Dock began in November 2019 after Tynwald approved funding of £38.05m.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on the delivery of the scheme, and continues to do so.

Problems include on-site social distancing requirements, key staff being unable to attend the site, delays in the supply chain caused by social distancing in factories, supply chain firms being unable to stay in business and a shortage of building materials.

Protecting the quay wall from possible future damage is a major challenge, and options around a solution are still being considered. The wall remains the property of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company Limited and work remains ongoing to prevent it being undermined by vessels’ regular use.

A further key factor is the discovery and urgent remediation of more than 200 voids, culverts and shafts which are in addition to approximately 100 identified prior to the project getting under way.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘Tynwald Members are being briefed on all the issues facing this important project, which will cement the Island’s maritime connection with the heart of Liverpool for future generations.

‘The effects of the pandemic continue to be felt, and should not be underestimated in a project of this scale. In addition, unforeseen problems mean solutions must be paid for which were not originally forecast and accommodated within the approved budget.’

Minister Baker added:

‘The current completion date agreed with the contractor is March 2022. However, it’s crucial people understand that finding and implementing a solution to the quay wall protection issue and overcoming other challenges mean this is likely to move into the following year.

‘The funding being sought this week is designed to provide budget capacity past the post-election Tynwald sittings and, once scour procurement and associated negotiations are complete, the Department will return to Tynwald for the balance of funding required to complete the project.’

New footpath/cycleway opens in Pulrose

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 12:45:00 GMT

A shared footpath/cycleway in Pulrose is helping to connect the community with the town centre, and encouraging people to stay active and stay safe while protecting the environment.

The new route linking Anagh Coar and Pulrose to the town centre is now officially open for use as a shared pedestrian and cycle route, as part of the Active Travel Strategy.

The newly-surfaced path runs alongside the edge of Pulrose golf course, providing a safe and comfortable alternative route to the main road. It runs for 400m metres, from the new Toucan crossing at Anagh Coar Lane and New Castletown Road junction, to Springfield Road in Pulrose – providing safe access to the NSC, school routes, town centre and the former steam railway lines connecting Douglas, Union Mills, St John’s and Peel.

It will become part of a network of cycle lanes, joining Douglas West to the main central route on Peel Road, and providing residents with a safe and easy way to travel to school or work actively – by cycling, walking and running, or by scooter.

An opening event was recently attended by members of the Government’s Active Travel Steering Group, Douglas Borough Council and contractors.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘This route is an example of collaborating to achieve a positive outcome for our community – the Active Travel Steering Group, Douglas Borough Council and contractors have worked together, and hope that this new route provides real benefit to those that will use it.’

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

‘This facility helps set the benchmark for future provision, ensuring we consider not just the access to our towns and schools, but provide children and families with the tools to make healthy and safe choices.’

Minister for Policy and Reform Ray Harmer MHK said:

‘This path is another great addition to our current cycle routes. Our goal is to provide continuous routes of a high standard to encourage pedestrians and cyclists to walk or cycle into town whether it be for leisure or business or for other personal needs.’

New bus vannin Sunset Links service to connect Peel and Port Erin

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 11:00:08 GMT

A new evening bus service will come into operation later this month linking Peel and Port Erin.

This Sunset Links N8 service will run every Friday and Saturday from 23 July to 4 September, providing four trips each way serving Peel, St John’s, Foxdale, Ballamodha, Castletown, Port St Mary and Port Erin.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘I know this evening link is much-anticipated; the Department has acted on feedback from customers, its team and business owners to introduce a service which is designed to give people options and enhance the night-time economy in the south and west.

‘The service has been fully approved by the Road Transport Licensing Committee and, if successful, it’s anticipated that it will become a regular fixture on the timetable, covering the first weekend of every month throughout the year.’

He added:

‘This is a great example of positive collaborative working and we are particularly grateful for the support of the Department of Enterprise and the traders’ body Visit Port Erin for helping get this venture off the ground.’

The fare between Port Erin/Port St Mary/Castletown/Ballamodha to St John’s/Peel is a £7 1-day saver ticket, which can be purchased on the bus and used for the return journey. The ticket is available for travel on all bus vannin services during the day and evening, and enables half fare on Hullad Oie Night Owl services.

Other Go cards such as Go Explore, Go Easy, Go Platinum Bus are also valid on this service. A special £3.50 1-day saver ticket is available for Go Silver and Go Gold card holders.

Fridays and Saturdays only - 23 July to 4 September
Peel - Foxdale - Castletown - Port St Mary - Port Erin - N8
Service No	N8	N8	N8	N8
Peel, Reayrt Aalin	1826	1926	2226	2326
Peel, Highwayman	1829	1929	2229	2329
Peel, Town Hall	1840	1940	2240	2340
St. Johns, Tynwald Hill	1847	1947	2247	2347
Higher Foxdale, Baltic	1853	1953	2253	2353
Castletown Square	1909	2009	2309	0009
Gansey, opp Shore Hotel	1915	2015	2315	0015
Port St. Mary, Harbour	1921	2021	2321	0021
Port Erin, Railway Station	1927	2027	2327	0027
Route: Reayrt Aalin - Oak Road - Peel Town Hall - St. Johns (Station Road) - Foxdale - Ballamodha - Great Meadow - Castletown Square - Shore Road - Port St. May - Port Erin.
Port Erin - Port St. Mary - Castletown - Foxdale - Peel - N8
Service No	N8	N8	N8	N8
Port Erin, Railway Station	1830	1930	2230	2330
Port St. Mary, Harbour	1839	1939	2239	2339
Gansey, Shore Hotel	1844	1944	2244	2344
Castletown Square, Co-op	1853	1953	2253	2353
Higher Foxdale, Baltic	1907	2007	2307	0007
St. Johns, Tynwald Hill	1913	2013	2313	0013
Peel, House of Manannan	1921	2021	---	---
Peel, Highwayman	1929	2029	2330	0030
Peel, Town Hall	1931	2031	2320	0020
Route: Port Erin - Port St. Mary - Shore Road - Castletown Square - Great Meadow - Foxdale - St. Johns (Station Road) - Peel - Ballawattleworth (before 2100 via the Promenade). When buses are unable to serve Peel Promenade the 1830 & 1930 journeys operate direct via Albany Road to Peel Town Hall then via Peveril Road.

Sunset Links has been scheduled to complement the extra 01:15 Hullad Oie Night Owl services which also operate between 23 July and 4 September serving Douglas to/from Port Erin, Peel, Laxey and Ramsey.

For more information on bus timetables, visit www.bus.im

Revised programme to undertake Mountain Road improvements

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:04:03 GMT

A schedule of proposed road closures on the Mountain Road this summer has been revised following consultation with stakeholders and feedback from the public.

The new approach is designed to reduce the impact on the travelling public and support local businesses during the summer months.

The majority of the work is now scheduled to take place over a six-week period starting in March 2022. This will include the reconstruction of the highway at Stella Maris in Ramsey and essential maintenance work.

The project cannot be started any later than March as the road surface and lining must have sufficient time to settle before TT 2022; and a six-week closure is necessary due to the risk of poor weather and fewer hours of daylight.

Some work will take place this summer to enable resurfacing by a specialist micro-asphalt contractor from the UK as part of a larger Island-wide programme.

This material must be applied in warm weather and the work will require daily closures for up to a week between Ramsey and the Bungalow, typically between 9am and 4pm to cater for commuter traffic. Access will be maintained to businesses and the Manx Electric Railway.

Patching will also be undertaken separately between Ramsey and Waterworks. This will be done under temporary traffic lights with a speed limit extension.

While these schemes take place, essential maintenance work will be tackled ahead of winter. A project to improve the railway crossing at the Bungalow will also be able to begin before being completed during the road closure in spring 2022.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:

‘As highlighted previously, this work is necessary to allow next year’s TT to go ahead as well as for safe long-term use. Now the consultation period has concluded, the team have been able to finalise their plans and revise the original proposal to accommodate concerns.’

He added:

‘It is essential that the Department can informally consult on its plans and gauge concerns among stakeholders before the formal public consultation that takes place as part of the road closure application. In this instance, the process has taken into account a wide range of views and has led to this revised proposal which will better support both our economic recovery and the visitor sector.’

Changes to onward travel to the Isle of Man from amber list countries

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 12:40:30 GMT

From Tuesday 29 June, anyone arriving in England from an amber list country and transiting through to the Isle of Man, will no longer be required to book private COVID-19 tests in England.

The change follows engagement on the issue between the Isle of Man Government and the UK Government.

To qualify for this new transit exemption, passengers must remain in their port of entry before onward travel to the Isle of Man or, if leaving their port of entry, they must be entering England for the sole purposes of continuing their journey to the Isle of Man.

Passengers will need to do the following before travelling to England from an amber list country:

On the passenger locator form, carry out the following steps:

Select ‘Stay in the UK’ under the ‘Your travel plans’ section
Reply ‘I will be travelling for an exempt reason’ to the question about whether you are required to self-isolate on arrival
Select the exemption options, and then select ‘Transit Exemption’

Passengers should be prepared to provide evidence at the border of their onward journey to the Isle of Man.

Full details are available on the gov.uk website.

There are different rules for passengers arriving from an amber list country in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Isle of Man residents arriving on the Island who have travelled to any country outside of the Common Travel Area (Guernsey, Ireland, Jersey, and the United Kingdom) in the previous 10 days are required to isolate on arrival, either for 21 days or for 7 days if they agree to have a test on arrival and again on day 6, at a cost of £30.

Details of the Day 7 Pathway are available on the COVID-19 website.