Douglas Borough Council has become the Island’s first local authority to have received approval to hold civil ceremonies on its premises.
The chief registrar has granted three-year Approved Place status to the council chamber of Douglas town hall to serve as a licensed venue for the solemnisation of civil marriages and formation of civil partnerships with effect from August 1st, 2013.
Council leader Councillor David Christian said: ‘The imposing surroundings of the council chamber have long served as the backdrop to animated debate and also proved to be a venue ideally suited to hosting a wide variety of civic, corporate and charitable events, so the chamber will provide a fitting setting in which to hold civil ceremonies.
‘We are pleased to have been granted Approved Place status for this magnificent building that dates from 1900 and attracted considerable interest during last year’s series of Manx National Heritage open days. This is yet another first for the Council and we look forward to welcoming couples, their families and friends to the town hall in the heart of Douglas to celebrate their happy occasion.’
To hold a civil ceremony at Douglas Town Hall a charge of ?250 will be added to the room hire rate. For more details contact assistant chief executive Sue Harrison or assistant town clerk Paul Cowin, 696300.
The council chamber may be viewed at http://venues.douglas.gov.im.
