Passenger numbers on the Douglas Horse Tramway have fallen by 33% during the 2008 season in comparison with 2007 – but the figures do not give the full story according to council leader David Christian. Part of the reason for the fall was the shorter season of operation with commencement two weeks later in May and ended two weeks earlier in September.
The decision to cut the season had saved the ratepayer £20,000 in 2008. Cllr Christian said: “'On the radio we were called damn idiots for shortening the season but I still stand by the decision. We are a declining tourist industry. The numbers are down year on year. There is no one here in the first two weeks of May. After the Manx Grand Prix we should shut down the promenade, close our shutters and close up for the winter. There is nobody here. One of the downturns is – what is there to get on the trams for at the other end of the promenade if you don't want to get to the MER?”
During a Council meeting the Horse Tramway was discussed and suggestions were made about how it can be improved in the future. Suggestions included starting trams later in the day and continued later into the evening and also attracting sponsorship.
Source: Isle of Man Today