A scheme to improve the ride quality on Lezayre Road in Ramsey will begin straight after TT Week.
It is scheduled to run from 10 June to 10 August and will require the junction of Bircham Avenue and Lezayre Road to be closed for approximately 6 weeks while the highway is reconstructed and works are carried out to improve the utilities.
A one kilometre stretch of Lezayre Road will be resurfaced while the junction is closed, and will feature the addition of a cycle lane.
A previous scheme planned for this section of road last year included a new water main for the full length of the works. Following discussions with Manx Utilities, local MHKs and Ramsey Town Commissioners, a new route for the water main away from the highway has been identified, allowing a simpler and quicker resurfacing scheme to be carried out.
The works at Bircham Avenue junction will make provision for a connection to the proposed new water main in the future, avoiding any further disruption on Lezayre Road.
Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said:
‘I am pleased that the Department has been given the opportunity to bring further improvements to the town.
‘The new scheme has been carefully planned with the local schools, residents and businesses to ensure that the smooth running of the town continues throughout the construction period.
‘With fewer students attending Ramsey Grammar School, warmer weather and longer working hours, the project will be finished before the students return from the summer break, which has been welcomed by the school.’
The project will see the current road surface removed during the working day and the new road surface laid in the evening, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours.
The addition of a cycle lane is part of an ongoing series of improvements to the highways network aimed at health benefits through ‘active travel’ and fulfils a commitment in the Programme for Government to encourage good lifestyle choices.
