Short sections of temporary white lines show where the horse trams will operate in future if the redevelopment scheme obtains planning approval and the support of Tynwald Members.
Minor amendments are being considered to the original plans in order to provide more space on the walkway for leisure users. This partly involves narrowing the footpath on the seaward side of the highway to allow the tram tracks to be repositioned. The modification will provide an additional one metre width to the walkway on Central and Queens Promenades.
Revised drawings are currently being produced to support the planning application that was submitted at the end of May.
To give people an idea of what is being proposed, the new layout has been marked in several locations along the walkway, including at the bottom of Broadway, at Marine Gardens, opposite the Palace Hotel and at Queen's Gardens.
Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said:
'While the general response to the Promenade scheme has been extremely positive, we have taken time to listen to people's comments and concerns. In response to representation from a Facebook campaign group, we are exploring the possibility of modifying the layout to create even more space for people who use the walkway for walking, jogging and cycling.'
He added:
'The Department has painted lines at different sections of the walkway to show the proposed location of the horse tram tracks. I think people will be pleasantly surprised at how much open space there will be for leisure users. This scheme devotes significantly more space for pedestrians and our intention is to provide an amenity that everyone can enjoy.'
The design for the refurbishment of Douglas Promenade reflects the aspirations of the Central Douglas Masterplan and aims to create a sense of place where people want to spend time and where businesses want to invest. Investment is also needed to reconstruct the failing highway, footways and drainage.
Minister Gawne commented:
'A lot of attention has focused on the position of the horse tram tracks, but we must not lose sight of the other crucial aspects of this scheme. Rebuilding this failing infrastructure provides an opportunity to support the cultural, creative and economic needs of the Island's capital for next 100 years. I believe we need to capture some of the bold innovation and vision demonstrated by the men and women who decided to build the first Douglas Promenade.'
