£21 million prom refurb plan dropped

Government told proposals 'ill considered'

Grand proposals for a multi-million pound makeover of Douglas Promenade are in shreds after they were strongly criticised by an independent planning inspector.

Infrastructure chiefs have been told plans to relocate horse trams on the walkway were ill considered - while parking had been made a priority at the expense of public safety.

Inspector Anthony Wharton held a public inquiry last autumn and his recommendation to reject the £21 million scheme has now been accepted by government.

Fresh plans will be drawn-up for a redevelopment of the roadway only, between the Sea Terminal and Villa Marina colonnade.

Proposals to relocate the horse trams on the walkway have been dropped.

A tram corridor will be included in a separate planning application to renew the highway between the War Memorial and Strathallan Crescent, taking the inspector's concerns into account.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘While I respect the decision to support the recommendation of the independent planning inspector, I feel an opportunity has been missed to do something bold and inspiring.'

He went on: 'I believe the Department designed the best possible scheme for Douglas Promenade, one that would have served the best interests of the Isle of Man, its economy and its people for the next 50 years.'

The planning inspector questioned whether the horse trams could operate safely at the side of a widened walkway. 

Mr Gawne says he accepts those concerns - but doesn't agree: