A new permit system is being introduced as part of measures to control the use of towed caravans in the Isle of Man.
 
The Department of Infrastructure is working in conjunction with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and other freight operators to ensure that towed caravans arriving at the Island’s main ports have a valid permit.
 
Those without a permit will be prohibited from crossing the threshold of the Sea Terminal and Ramsey harbour. The new system will be enforced by the Department’s port security officers.
 
The Department is also working to identify appropriate routes from ports to designated campsites, with a view to restricting the roads on which towed caravans can travel.
 
The measures are being implemented in response to recommendations agreed by Tynwald in November 2014 following a Select Committee report on the issue.
 
Permits will be issued to caravan owners provided they meet all the following criteria:
 
•         They are visiting for the TT Festival, Classic TT or Southern 100
•         They have a return ferry booking for the caravan within three weeks of arrival
•         They are staying at an approved campsite

Provision will also be made to honour caravan bookings made with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company before 1 April 2015.
 
Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘Tynwald Members made it abundantly clear that they did not want to encourage towed caravans on to Manx roads. There are concerns that caravans create traffic congestion and have a detrimental impact on road safety. However, there is also a recognition that we need to support the tourism industry during our showpiece motorcycling festivals. We believe the new arrangements offer a positive solution.’
 
Manx people who own a caravan that is already in the Isle of Man will be issued with a permit allowing them to leave and return with the same caravan. Permits will not be issued to those wishing to bring new or replacement caravans into the Isle of Man.