Proposals to improve the public realm around Market Place and Michael Street in Peel have received planning approval.

The plans aim to create a more attractive space for people to spend time in and to make it easier for pedestrians to move around.

Natural stone paving will be used to enhance the area and to complement the historic buildings which line the square and the shopping streets and give the conservation area its character.

Where possible, pavements will be widened to create more space for pedestrians, while the entrance to St Peter’s Church will be opened up and made accessible for all. Existing granite kerbs will be retained and reused within the overall scheme.

The space created will allow for flexible use when demand exists, helping to support community events but still providing parking. This will be achieved by rearranging how the area is laid out.

A coordinated scheme of street furniture, including bins, bollards and street lighting columns will be installed, further enhancing the quality of the area.

Ray Harmer, Chairman of Peel Commissioners and member of the Peel Regeneration Committee, commented: ‘This is great news for Peel. Our town has so much to offer already, but these plans will upgrade an important focal point for residents and visitors. Not only will the grounds of St Peter’s be opened up for all, there will also be more space for outside seating and a much more pleasant environment for shoppers.’

Gaining planning approval is an essential step in moving towards implementing the scheme. In his report which recommended approval, the appointed independent planning inspector noted: ‘The functions of Market Place as a meeting place and as a potential area for community events/congregation would be enhanced by the reduced proportion of its space that would be taken up by moving and parked vehicles and by the consequent increase in space available for use by pedestrians.’

Tim Crookall MLC, Chairman of the Peel Regeneration Committee, said: ‘The Committee has worked hard to bring these proposals forward to benefit residents and provide a bigger draw to visitors to the Island. We want people to enjoy spending time in Peel’s retail area and having a quality environment is essential in making that happen.’

Subject to funding for the works being approved it is anticipated that the scheme could start early in the New Year.

- Ends -