The first in a series of regeneration schemes designed to reinvigorate Laxey village centre is set to get underway on Tuesday 22 April 2014.
 
The project will see the coach park at the end of Mines Road improved through the creation of a dedicated pedestrian area, including seating and an information point. The damaged surfacing will be replaced with new tarmac and fresh lining.
 
The completed project will provide five coach spaces to ensure sufficient capacity during the busy summer season.
 
The phase of work is focused on the coach park and will not prevent pedestrians or vehicles using the existing routes on Mines Road. All businesses will remain open and accessible.
 
A temporary replacement coach park immediately adjacent to the existing coach facilities will be provided to accommodate two coaches.
 
The remainder of the highway roadside layby adjacent to Mines Road will be available for public parking. Greater parking enforcement will be carried out during the construction period to remove unlicensed vehicles, trailers and skips from the public highway.
 
Mr Steve Rodan SHK, Chairman of the Laxey Regeneration Committee commented: ‘The coach park is an important part of the overall plans for Laxey regeneration. The Committee listened to public feedback from the initial consultation and has responded by selecting improvement schemes that will offer the greatest benefit to the village. The existing coach park does little to welcome our visitors who come to see the many attractions we have to offer.’
 
He added: ‘The regeneration scheme will deliver a much improved gateway for visitors and, subject to some land negotiations and funding being agreed, will be followed by the main scheme in autumn which focuses on the Rose Garden and pavement improvements. I would ask that during the work, people continue to support Laxey businesses. Finally, on behalf of the Committee, I would like to express gratitude to the Chief Minister’s Regeneration Steering Group for agreeing to fund this scheme’.
 
The coach park improvement works are to be completed as soon as possible to allow the new facilities to be available for the busier TT and summer coach tourist visitor season.