Douglas regeneration: £21m plans submitted for Manx capital

Ministers hope the plans will give boost tourism and business in Douglas

Multi-million pound proposals to enhance the Isle of Man's capital have been submitted for planning approval.

The infrastructure department said the £21m plans aim to establish Douglas as a leading business and tourism centre.

Ideas put forward include road and drainage improvements and the creation of a cultural centre on the promenade.

They would also mean removing the twin horse tram tracks from the centre of the promenade and creating a single track on the walkway.

Minister Phil Gawne said: "It is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver an exciting, inspiring scheme.

"The design will no doubt challenge people's traditional views - the plans represent a more progressive and inclusive approach to street design."

Ministers hope that a new Cultural Quarter, near the Gaiety theatre on the promenade, will encourage public art and performance.

If the plans, which go on display on 8 May at the Sea Terminal, are approved they will then go to Tynwald in October.

Subject to political approval, work is scheduled to begin in November.