'Tired' Isle of Man promenade make-over begins in Douglas

The first phase will cost £1.6m and take 10 months to complete

A multi-million pound regeneration of the "tired and tatty" promenade in Douglas, Isle of Man, has begun.

The first phase of the scheme, which it is estimated will cost £17m in total, involves road improvements between the Sea Terminal and Victoria Street.

The plans were given the green light in Tynwald last month.

Director of Highways, Richard Pearson, said: "The last serious investment in the promenade was seen 80 years ago and it is looking very tired and tatty."

He added: "It is the main gateway to the island through which most visitors arrive and most islanders also come here regularly. So it is an obvious choice for infrastructure investment."

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

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

The first phase of the project will take around 10 months to complete and see the resurfacing of the road, as well as improvements to drainage and pavements.

The Jubilee Clock will also be moved by eight metres.