Isle of Man horse tram track relocation plans on show

The Douglas Horse Trams have been in existence since 1876 in the Isle of Man

An exhibition has opened in Douglas to encourage feedback on plans to relocate the 1.6 mile (2.6km) horse tram track for the first time in 140 years.

Under proposals it will move to either the highway side of Marine Gardens or the promenade walkway a part of a multi-million pound revamp of the area.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne said he is aware of "strong feelings for both and we will listen carefully."

The Douglas horse trams have been in existence since 1876.

The horse drawn trams have been ferry tourists along the promenade for more 140 years

Members of the project team will be available to explain the proposals and answer questions at the exhibition on Friday and Saturday.

Designs, technical information and artist's impressions will also be on display at the Sea Terminal.

The proposals, which both feature the same layout beyond the War Memorial to Strathallan Crescent, are being reviewed as part of a multi-million pound scheme to reconstruct the entire promenade.

This year the service, which according to the council ran at a loss of about £250,000, finished on the 17 September and will not start again until 2016.

Mr Gawne said: "Work to rejuvenate what is regarded as the gateway to the Isle of Man is a major undertaking and I want to further consider the options before progressing.

"This represents an investment in the Isle of Man's infrastructure for the next 50 years and we must get it right."