The second phase of a multi-million pound refurbishment of Douglas promenade will set in motion the removal of the horse tram tracks from the centre of the road.

A ?1.36million scheme from the Bottleneck car park to Regent Street will see the track removed from that section of the road. Ultimately, a new track will be laid on the seaward side of the length of the promenade. Phase three of the project will complete the refurbishment of the prom from Regent Street to Strathallan.

Department of Infrastructure Minister Laurence Skelly will be seeking Tynwald approval for phase two at this month's sitting.

If Tynwald gives the go-ahead, work will start in September and should be completed by March 2015. During the work, motorists will be able to park on the promenade walkway on a similar basis to the Christmas parking arrangements.

Laurence Skelly said: 'The promenade in Douglas is the gateway to the Island and provides a first impression for visitors arriving at
the Sea Terminal.

'As well as improving the visual appeal of the area, the scheme will enhance the ride quality of the road, improve drainage and set in motion plans to relocate the horse tram tracks to a safer location on the seaward side of the promenade. We hope this work will breathe new life into the area, support existing businesses and encourage more private sector investment.'


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