Plans are taking shape to rejuvenate the commercial heart of Laxey and create an attractive new focal point for the village. A range of proposals are being progressed as part of the Town and Village Regeneration Scheme, an initiative established by Chief Minister Tony Brown to help the Island’s retail areas to achieve their full potential. Projects under consideration include the creation of a village square at Whitehouse Close, the installation of new street furniture, lighting and public art, the provision of pedestrian signage and information, and improvements to the coach park. The first phase of work within the Laxey Regeneration Zone will also focus on the village’s retail area, and commercial property owners and lease holders have been invited to apply for funding to improve the appearance of their buildings. The overall proposals have been developed by the Laxey Regeneration Committee, a partnership between the Isle of Man Government, Laxey Commissioners and private enterprise. A project team is being put in place to prepare detailed designs for items on the Laxey Master Plan which have been approved by the Chief Minister’s Regeneration Steering Group. Members of the local community, who have helped to shape the current proposals via public consultations, will have further opportunities to comment and get involved as the regeneration progresses. Steve Rodan, Chairman of the Laxey Regeneration Committee said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that the Chief Minister’s Steering Group has backed the Laxey regeneration proposals. It is terrific news for Laxey. ‘We will be working hard now to make sure that the designs are developed so that we get a welcoming, smarter, lively Laxey which is what the public wanted when they were asked in the consultations. This is an excellent example of the community working together to achieve positive results,’ he added. Ends