A NEW web page which brings together up to date information and advice relating to weather, traffic and travel in the Isle of Man has been launched by the government.

The website www.gov.im/travelupdates will aim to provide real-time updates in order to keep the travelling public informed about changing circumstances and to offer advice on planning their journey.

It includes links to relevant weather information and live Twitter feeds from a number of government departments.

The initiative has been developed by the Chief Secretary's Office after discussions with the Departments of Infrastructure, Education and Children, and Community, Culture and Leisure.

Business change manager Daniel Davies said: "We were aware that government provided lots of useful information about travel and weather disruption but it was spread across a number of different web pages. We also knew that some departments were starting to use Twitter as a way of giving out up to date information on the services we provide and had received some good feedback on this.

"By making all the updates and guidance available in one place, as well as displaying the relevant Twitter feeds, we've created a useful resource for people which should prove very helpful in the event of snow and ice causing any further problems this winter.

"We want to keep the Manx public as safe, secure and as well-informed as possible when adverse weather causes disruption to normal routines.

"The benefits of having clear and timely lines of communication were emphasised during the recent cold snap and we've listened to people and taken on board their comments when developing the new web page."

The site was created by the Information Systems Division of the Department of Economic Development. Anyone with feedback or suggestions is asked to e-mail change@gov.im.