Refurbishing Ramsey's Queen's Pier could kick-start the regeneration of the town, according to local commissioner Leonard Singer.

Earlier this week, Tynwald unanimously approved the creation of a steering group to look into the potential for refurbishing the structure, or restoring it as part of a privately funded marina development.

The group will report back by November with full costings for both options.

Mr Singer (pictured) believes the issue will remain a political football, but is delighted some progress is being made.

He told Manx Radio:

"It never appears to have been the right time to refurbish the pier.

"I welcome very much the comments made by the treasury minister, who (as a Ramsey MHK) is obviously in a difficult position.

"But he made clear the positive aspects of refurbishment, perhaps using money when the (government's) capital expenditure has slipped, which could be used to our advantage.

"I think there are ways, particularly for our construction industry. If we are going into bad times, then the construction industry is going to be reduced (and) surely it might be better to invest this time in refurbishing the pier, giving the work to local firms and local people.

"It keeps the construction industry going, and we are getting something extremely positive during these bad times."