'Tired and tatty prom' regeneration could begin next month

The first phase of a projected £17.1m project to regenerate Douglas's "tired and tatty" promenade could start next month, a government spokesman has said.

The first phase, costing £1.6m, would see the development of the road between the Sea Terminal and Victoria Street.

Director of Highways, Richard Pearson said along with the works on Peel Road it is the area the public most wanted to see developed.

The plans will go before Tynwald on Tuesday.

If approved, the first phase is scheduled to last 37 weeks and due to be completed by May 2014.

The Isle of Man government has provisionally agreed to spend £17.1m over the next four years to develop Douglas promenade including moving the horse trams to a single track with crossing points.

A government survey showed that nearly 60% of people who responded thought its appearance was sub-standard.

Mr Pearson added: "The last serious investment in the promenade was seen 80 years ago and it is looking very tired and tatty. The ride quality is poor, the surface drainage doesn't work.

"It is the main gateway to the island through which most visitors arrive. Most islanders also come here regularly - so it is an obvious choice for infrastructure investment."

The first phase will include work to the carriageway and footpath.

In 2010, a public consultation received 452 written responses with the "overwhelming majority" supporting the regeneration of the promenade, according to Mr Pearson.