Highways chiefs are to introduce a more formal approach to consulting businesses over disruption caused by roadworks.

The Department of Infrastructure has been accused of failing to liaise with businesses properly to minimise the effects of disruption.

David Ashford (Douglas North) has criticised the lack of information shared on economic impact assessments ahead of major schemes.

Earlier this year, there was anger among motorists and businesses when Bucks Road, in Douglas, was closed for gas works at the same time as resurfacing work was taking place on Douglas promenade, meaning two of the main routes into Douglas were affected at the same time.

Mr Ashford this week asked Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer for more information on how the details of impact assessments were recorded and whether findings were shared formally with businesses.

In a written response, Mr Harmer said information was shared when a consultation takes place as part of the economic impact assessment.

’Where specific and important agreements have been made with individual businesses or other stakeholders, they are recorded in the project records and often confirmed by letter,’ he said.

’The department will develop a more formal approach to recording its conclusions on the potential impacts and mitigations for major schemes, to include such issues as traffic volumes, nature of affected businesses, diversionary routes, delays and any required changes to the delivery of the scheme.’

The minister added: ’As a matter of normal practice, highway services does not stop any business from operating and officers work on a daily basis to accommodate the operational needs of affected businesses.

’Most understand that the maintenance of good quality roads is essential to their ongoing business success and in the Island’s overall economic and social interests.

’Businesses also understand that work cannot be done without some disruption. Obviously, this is not to say that they are happy that their business may be adversely affected in the short term.’

Manx Utilities Authority chairman Dr Alex Allinson was questioned on the approach of his authority.

Dr Allison said it took communication with businesses ’extremely seriously’.

’Wherever possible, attempts are made to provide good notice of operational needs, and indeed Manx Utilities has on occasion changed work programmes as a result of feedback from local businesses and stakeholders where it has been possible to do so,’ he added.

’Where work does proceed on a planned basis, Manx Utilities endeavours to keep the local community informed of intended works. This is individually via various communication channels, including postal, social media, telephone calls and house calls.’