Essential maintenance will be carried out in April to enhance the quality and safety of one of the Isle of Man’s main strategic routes.
Work will include the resurfacing and re-profiling of the carriageway at the Bungalow section of the A18 Mountain Road.
The scheme has been programmed as part of the Department of Infrastructure’s efforts to prolong the operational life of the Island’s key assets.
Owing to its exposed location and altitude, the Mountain Road is particularly susceptible to weather damage and the carriageway at the Bungalow has become badly rutted in places.
The scheme will involve the plane and overlay of a 500 metre section of carriageway to improve the ride quality and safety for all road users, including competitors in the TT and Festival of Motorcycling.
The Mountain Road from Ramsey Hairpin to the Creg-ny-Baa will be subject to a full road closure (24 hours a day) from Saturday 8 April to Sunday 23 April inclusive to enable the work to be completed as efficiently as possible. The road will reopen earlier than 23 April if the scheme is finished ahead of schedule.
In addition to the improvements at the Bungalow, the Department will take the opportunity to carry out its annual TT preparations to minimise any further impact on motorists. This work includes:
• Erection of one-way TT signage
• Road lining
• Ditching
• Sign maintenance
David Anderson MLC, Department Member with responsibility for Highway Services, said: ‘The Mountain Road is a critical route for many people and the Department is investing in its long-term integrity. The focus is on maintaining our assets to avoid the need for more substantial, costly and disruptive reconstruction in the future. The work taking place in April will provide year-round improvements for motorists, as well as supporting the safe and successful running of the TT Races and Festival of Motorcycling.’
He added: ‘The full closure of the road allows for extended working hours to maximise efficiency and minimise inconvenience, as well as to create a safer environment for our staff. I recognise that this work will cause short-term disruption and I would like to thank people in advance for their patience and cooperation.’
