IS there too much parking on Douglas Promenades and should the horse tram track be relocated?

These were just two of the issues members of the public were due to be asked their views on regarding the proposed refurbishment of Douglas Promenades, we reported in October.

At the time the Department of Infrastructure was preparing an "Issues and options" document to seek views.

The last major reconstruction of Douglas Promenades took place in the 1930s when Loch Promenade was rebuilt and a new sea wall created.

Mr Gawne said at the time: "Douglas Promenade has served the capital well for more than 70 years without any major maintenance or refurbishment.

"But it is reaching the end of its serviceable life and I think everyone would agree that it is beginning to detract from the quality of the street scene.

"The road surface is uneven and badly cracked and it gives a shabby and downtrodden first impression to visitors.

"In contrast, Douglas Corporation's sunken gardens are still popular during the summer and continue to be maintained to a high standard.

"The question is, of course, what's the best solution to address the situation, given the current economic climate? One option would be to undertake a minimal maintenance job on a like-for-like basis, but another view is that we should take the opportunity to adjust the layout slightly or perhaps even consider more ambitious changes."

The department wants to know the public's views and expectations - looking at issues such as whether there is enough parking or too much parking, the need for increased soft landscaping and "street furniture" and the quality of materials to be used.

The other major consideration is the horse trams and whether the tracks should be relocated - for example between the road and the sunken gardens.

Mr Gawne added: "There are other, more ambitious conceptual options which would need additional funding and these are not being ruled out but we need to understand the level of public support before we develop any such plans.

"Even if we receive strong support for improvements it will be at least a few years before we can begin any significant work on the promenade.

"Various planning, design, services and work programming issues would need to be properly assessed and of course the important issue of how this might fit in with overall priorities for the people we represent has got to be addressed."