Plans to regenerate the centre of Laxey have moved a step closer to fruition.

The village’s regeneration committee says it’s applied for planning permission to upgrade the tram station as well as nearby rose garden and square.

The application was submitted by the Department of Community Culture and Leisure, which owns the station and garden.

Upgrades to tram station equipment and pedestrian safety are planned, along with more access for disabled people and better lighting.

The plans include improved walkways at the station with minor adjustments to the tram lines. Diseased trees are to be cut down and some saplings thinned out to allow more light and air through the trees.

A more accessible walkway will link Mines Road to Whitehouse Square, which will be extended, levelled and repaved.

The tram station buildings themselves, however, will remain intact.