The future of Bradda Glen and the Headlands has been secured for the future.

Tynwald has agreed that the land should be taken over by the Department of Agriculture from Port Erin Commissioners.

A report from a Council of Ministers working group has put forward a number of options as to how the area should now be developed

The working group was made up of Agriculture Minister Phil Gawne, Tourism Minister Adrian Earnshaw, East Douglas MHK Phil Braidwood and Eddie Lowey MLC.

They suggested there could a themed cafe and the provision of visitor accommodation, similar to that found at Laxey. Initial estimates suggest work on the site would cost in the region of ?626,000, and this would include significant repairs to Milner's Tower.

Alex Downie MLC warned there could be hidden expenses in capping mine shafts around the area and he urged against excessive health and safety notices around the Tower saying a balance had to be struck.

Rushen MHK Juan Watterson thanked members for saving this gem, while Mr Gawne, a Rushen member himself, assured the court that had a similar project presented itself in Ramsey - he would have been just as enthusiastic about it.

And David Callister MLC made his maiden debut in a Tynwald debate by referring to Bradda Head as a national asset which was one of the remnants of the Island's tourism industry. He warned keeping it for the nation would come at a cost.


(Picture courtesy of manxscenes.com)