The Department of Infrastructure is closing two tracks in the north west of the Island as part of its commitment to promoting the long-term management of our green lanes.

Vehicles will be prohibited from using the Ballacob track and Slieau Dhoo link track in the Michael and Ballaugh areas in order to prevent serious erosion during the winter months.

The closures are being implemented following consultation with representatives of the Green Lane User Group and will be in place from 01 November 2015 to 31 March 2016.

The Department intends to keep the Slieau Dhoo link track closed during the spring and summer of 2016 to enable a programme of sustainable maintenance to be carried out.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: ‘The Department is continuing to work with the Green Lane User Group to actively manage the Isle of Man’s upland tracks and encourage the responsible use of this important and valuable natural asset.’

He added: ‘I’d also like to thank the volunteers and representatives of various off-roading groups who have carried out a lot of positive work, including putting in place marker posts to highlight routes, clearing out ditches and run-offs and levelling out deep ruts. Their efforts have enabled the Department to allow the continued use of the Sky Hill track over the winter and to restrict the number of tracks we are at this stage planning to close.’

Further information and updates on these closures are available from the Public Rights of Way Officer on 686922.