Controversial plans which would have seen the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway cut in length with the section between the Villa Marina and Sea Terminal abandoned have been narrowly rejected at Tynwald. However despite this vote it is not the end of the matter as it will go to another vote at January\u2019s sitting.<\/p>\n
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As we have previously reported the Department of Infrastructure\u2019s latest plan was to see double tracks laid in the centre of the road between Derby Castle and the Villa Marina (including a connection to the Manx Electric Railway). However although there would have been a \u201ctramway corridor\u201d provided from the Villa Marina to the Sea Terminal this would not have seen track laid initially although it would remain for possible future use.<\/p>\n
These plans \u2013 which are part of the redevelopment of Douglas Promenade which has required attention for a number of years \u2013 were debated at the December sitting of Tynwald where a vote came out narrowly against the proposal. However despite this vote it doesn\u2019t seem as if it is enough to defeat the plan completely as it will now go forward to Tynwald in January instead where presumably another vote will be taken.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile the Department of Infrastructure have also submitted a planning application for a new temporary depot and stabling facility to be built on part of the former Summerland site adjacent to the Derby Castle terminus. This new facility would include space for tram sheds, stables, staff welfare facilities and parking.<\/p>\n
It has been known for a while that Douglas Council were preparing to sell Summerhill stables with the horses being moved but it had originally been thought this would be at the current Strathallan Depot. However these latest plans seem to suggest that not only will the historic stables no longer be used in the future but the depot \u2013 which does need significant attention to bring it up to the required standard \u2013 is also set to be replaced. Presumably with the stables already up for sale it is hoped that this temporary facility will be approved and built in time for the start of the 2017 season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Controversial plans which would have seen the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway cut in length with the section between the Villa Marina and Sea Terminal abandoned have been narrowly rejected at Tynwald. However despite this vote it is not the end … Continue reading