'Interim solution' found as talks continue over station's future
Douglas RNLI station is set to receive a replacement lifeboat as its current vessel nears the end of its life.
A Trent class all-weather lifeboat will replace the current Mersey class which is set to be withdrawn from service later this year.
It follows a Lifesaving Effect Review, which got underway in October last year, to assess which lifeboat would best serve the Island's capital.
Currently the boat is launched from a liner berth due to a safety issue with the winch inside the boathouse in Douglas harbour.
The RNLI says replacing the lifeboats will be possible once the formal licence for the liner berth has been issued by the Department of Infrastructure.
Discussions with the Isle of Man Government continue about the long-term future of the Douglas station.
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In 2024 the RNLI celebrated its 200th anniversary.
The organisation was founded by Manx resident Sir William Hillary who, after witnessing numerous shipwrecks around the Island's coast, sought to find a life-saving solution.
A statue of Sir William on Douglas Head looks out towards the tower in the bay.
Jo Partner, RNLI Head of Region says: 'The RNLI recognises the historic significance of Douglas alongside the current lifesaving impact the lifeboat station has in this region. Douglas will continue to provide a vital lifesaving service, and I want to reinforce our commitment to finding a solution that is absolutely right.
'I would like to thank the Douglas RNLI crew for their invaluable input into the Lifesaving Effect Review. This interim solution provides a continuance of all-weather capability from Douglas, a reduced training demand on our volunteers and allows more time to find a longer-term solution that will ensure RNLI lifesaving from Douglas will be continued.
'The RNLI will continue to work with the Isle of Man government to find a permanent solution to secure the long-term future of Douglas RNLI.'
Manx Radio has contacted the RNLI for more details regarding the new vessel's arrival.
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