Government plans for public transport and parking are on the agenda of tomorrow's Douglas Town Council meeting.

Controversial proposals include charging for parking on the promenade and ending free bus travel.

The council has responded to a consultation exercise, stating that it recognises the Department of Infrastructure is likely to introduce charges for parking in critical areas, such as Loch Promenade, but calling for 'appropriate' levels of charging. It believes shoppers should not be charged for the first two hours of parking so they are not deterred from visiting the town centre.

Councillors say local authorities should be more involved in policing and enforcement, with costs and income being shared.

They support the end of free travel on buses, except for state retirement pensioners and disabled people, and support the end of all free travel on the electric and steam railways.


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