A former supermarket could play host to a Christmas market this December.

The former Shoprite store in Chester Street, has been empty since the company closed its central Douglas base in April this year.

It may now gain a new lease of life as a Christmas market, rather than it being held in the town’s main shopping street as in previous years.

It is understood that Douglas Town Centre Management would like to use the space as it would provide shelter for both market stall holders and customers.

However, that would rely on the approval of the Department of Infrastructure, which owns the building.

DoI Minister Ray Harmer told the House of Keys in May that there was interest in the building following the closure of Shoprite.

At the time, he said: ’The intention is that the site will continue to form part of the town’s retail accommodation.’

He added: ’I believe there is interest.’

But, despite that interest, there has been no clear indication of any movement in the building.

Douglas councillor Ritchie McNicholl had called for the car park, which dominates the upper parts of the building, to be demolished following Shoprite’s withdrawal ,adding that the building was 40 years old and not fit for purpose.

Mr Harmer however, has said the building and the car park is in good order.

He said: ’Chester Street has received significant investment in recent years, including interior redecoration, refurbishment, public toilets installation, new passenger lifts.

’Its ongoing regeneration work is an important part of Douglas.

’That whole connectivity of taking us from the Villa and cultural centre right the way through is key.’

While talks continue as to the Christmas market, the switching on of the capital’s Christmas lights is set for Thursday, November 22.

Beginning at 6.15pm, the event will, as in previous years, be held in Ridgeway Street outside the town hall.

Douglas Town Band will perform Christmas carols before the Mayor Jon Joughin switches on the lights at 7pm when snow is forecast to fall.

With Santa in his grotto and late-night shopping beginning, the night will mark the start of the capital’s countdown to Christmas.

There will be free parking in the council’s Shaw’s Brow, Chester Street and Bottleneck car parks.