The newly finished boat park in Douglas inner harbour has, unexpectedly, been opened up early for use by boat owners.

It had been planned to keep it out of bounds for some months but according to harbour authorities "pressure of demand" has resulted in the early opening.

The port authorities wanted to keep the park empty for use in installing the latest batch of pontoons later this year. But after a number of requests its been decided to allow its use, subject to suitable permissions.

When the pontoons start being installed, possibly in mid to late July, an area of the park may be cordoned off, for use in the construction work. Once the pontoons are in it will largely complete the in harbour works currently planned for the area.

In a week Tynwald will be asked to approve the purchase of the Parade Street site from the Steam Packet for ?8 million. It has been suggested the space is needed to cope with harbour expansion.


(Picture: Douglas Harbour redevelopment work some months ago)