Richmond Hill road improvements 'will save lives'

Road improvements on the Isle of Man's Richmond Hill will save lives, the infrastructure minister has said.

In the House of Keys, Phil Gawne said he expected the work to significantly reduce accidents and deaths.

Mr Gawne said the island's deputy chief constable believed the work would improve road safety.

He said: "I am not a road safety expert but the deputy chief constable is, and he is very impressed with the road improvements at Richmond Hill."

The scheme, which includes replacing a worn out carriageway and improving safety, is due to be completed within a budget of more than £3m.

Tynwald granted approval for the scheme in January 2010 after it was established the area, which links the east and south of the island, had the highest road accident record in the Isle of Man.