Commissioners back long-term plan for park

Ramsey Commissioners have agreed to come up with a long-term strategy for Mooragh Park

Creating a long-term strategy for a popular park in the north of the Isle of Man aims to "provide a vision" for its future, a commissioner has said.

Ramsey Commissioners told a public meeting they had agreed to develop proposals for the future of Mooragh Park over the next five, 10 and 25 years.

The motion, put forward by commissioner Juan McGuinness, would allow the local authority to "explore all options" when equipment reaches the end of its life, for example, and allow it to collaborate with groups about the future best use of the open space.

McGuinness said having a long-term plan meant the local authority was in a "far better financial position" to plan improvements.

'Jewel of the north'

The strategy is also designed to build upon existing park maintenance plans and examine options for redevelopment and investment.

Describing the park as "the jewel of the north", McGuinness said it was "easy to take for granted".

His plan is set to go before the board of commissioners next April and would include proposed funding models.

He hopes his long-term approach will avoid "[doing] things on an annual basis because it would lead to a rate rise".

McGuinness said the park "has something for everyone, and it is time we acknowledge that and ensure that it stays that way for future generations".