Plans to introduce parking charges on Douglas promenade and reduce free disc parking will drive another nail into the retail coffin, according to Douglas Council leader David Christian.

He said the council is totally opposed to reducing the two-hour disc zone to one hour. And, although Mr Christian concedes there could be a case for pay and display on the prom walkway, the first two hours should be free.

Meanwhile, the Department of Infrastructure has announced a series of concessions in the run up to Christmas that it says has been welcomed by retailers and town centre officials.

Chester Street car park and the prom walkway car park will be free on Thursdays from 6pm, from November 20 to December 18, and on Saturdays from November 22 to December 20. The reduction in free parking on Loch promenade from two hours to one hour will now not take effect until January.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne said: 'I recognise that it has been a difficult trading environment this year and I hope these parking concessions will prove beneficial.'


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