The highways authority has painted white lines on sections of the Douglas promenade walkway to show where the horse tram service will run.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne says the plans have been amended to take into account the concerns of a social media campaign group that wants to keep the horse trams off the walkway altogether.

Mr Gawne said: 'While the general response to the Promenade scheme has been extremely positive, we have taken time to listen to people’s comments and concerns. In response to representation from a Facebook campaign group, we are exploring the possibility of modifying the layout to create even more space for people who use the walkway for walking, jogging and cycling.

'The Department has painted lines at different sections of the walkway to show the proposed location of the horse tram tracks. I think people will be pleasantly surprised at how much open space there will be for leisure users. This scheme devotes significantly more space for pedestrians and our intention is to provide an amenity that everyone can enjoy.'

The changes include narrowing the footpath on Central and Queen's promenade to provide an additional one metre width to the walkway.

Mr Gawne said: 'A lot of attention has focused on the position of the horse tram tracks, but we must not lose sight of the other crucial aspects of this scheme. Rebuilding this failing infrastructure provides an opportunity to support the cultural, creative and economic needs of the Island’s capital for the next 100 years.

'I believe we need to capture some of the bold innovation and vision demonstrated by the men and women who decided to build the first Douglas Promenade.'


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