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Work begins on controversial wall scheme
WORK has begun on an unpopular project to replace worn railings on part of Peel promenade with a wall.
Department of Transport workmen will lift railings in Victoria Street, from the junction with East Quay as far as the promenade kiosk, and spend eight weeks building the wall.
The upright posts will be refurbished by DoT blacksmiths and reinstalled with new horizontal bars further down the promenade in Shore Road in a second 25-week phase of the project.
The scheme, devised by Peel Commissioners to take place during the winter, has angered residents and even the authority is anxious its delayed start does not affect summer tourism.
Commissioners explained there used to be a wall on the Victoria Street promenade before the introduction of railings, which were now weak and dangerous as people leaned on them.
They argued a wall would require much less maintenance than railings, which are re-painted regularly and boarded every winter to prevent sand being blown onto the promenade.
But the plan came under fire from residents with children who said they would no longer be able to watch their youngsters play on the beach from benches on the promenade.
It was also criticised by wheelchair users arguing they would not be able to see over the wall.
Suzette Marshall, who stood as a candidate in December's Peel by-election, attacked the plan in her manifesto.
She said: 'The railings should be refurbished like for like – don't build a wall.
'What's the harm with a bit of sand a few times a year? Isn't that what the seaside is all about?
'The whole frontage would benefit from a lick of paint and seasonal planting, similar to Douglas promenade. We are a seaside town which should have the pull it justly deserves.'
The area around the railings will be cordoned off during the work, which is due to last until October. This will leave a narrow walkway on the promenade through the summer season.
Peel Commissioners' chairman Rodger Gimbert said: 'We have told the DoT we don't want this work to impact on tourism.
'They could carry it out in stages, stopping at busy times like Easter and during the TT.'
In a statement, the DoT thanked residents in advance for their cooperation during the work.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
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YOUR COMMENTS
leave the railings
TK
What an enormous fuss over nothing. Peel, grow up.
ANON
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Weather for Isle of Man
Thursday 09 February 2012
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