Local authority backs full pedestrianisation of Castletown square

The square has been shut to traffic in previous years to create a new public space during the summer

The pedestrianisation of a historical town square could be extended to all year round after the local authority approved the move.

Castletown Commissioners has trialled the summer closure of Market Square to traffic since 2017 to boost footfall and host community events.

The authority has now voted to apply to the Department of Infrastructure to fully pedestrianise the area next year.

Chairman Jamie Horton said the final decision would be up to the government.

As reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr Horton said the board would leave it up to the Department of Infrastructure to decide.

Seasonal closures have previously been backed in public consultations, but some local traders have objected to the plans over fears a loss of parking would deter customers in the winter months.

Commissioner Beth Cannan put forward a motion to formally seek to pedestrianse the area year-round, which the board supported.

In a statement the commissioners said the application would "likely" create the need for more evidence of public consultation over the proposal.

Parking spaces would remain available through the winter, with a further update due next year, the statement said.

The application would be accompanied by a wider review of the traffic regulations within the town centre, it added.

Ms Cannan's proposal also included a bid to fully establish disabled parking spaces on The Parade and behind the town hall, which were introduced for blue badge holders in response the trial closures.

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