It's been claimed visitors to the Isle of Man have been unable to use the Sulby Claddaghs camping area, when they were legally entitled to do so. 

By-laws controlling the use of the Claddaghs are in the process of being changed, but the Department of Agriculture had hoped to open the site for a few days over the Easter period, beginning on Good Friday.

However, on yesterday's Mannin Line, it was alleged the old regulations were still in force, and the area should have been available for public use as usual from March 16.

Local resident Michael Christian said the situation had led to general confusion, and disappointment for a group of visiting campers (play audio file):

The use of the Claddaghs has been the subject of a lengthy consultation exercise, and the Department of Agriculture has drawn up a new list of rules for managing the area and controlling anti-social behaviour, which it wanted to bring in on May 1.

Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne had hoped to get the by-laws approved at this month's sitting of Tynwald, but was 'thwarted' by the court.