Douglas City Council has reaffirmed its support for improvements to the capital’s seafront by backing plans to install public artwork along the sea defence wall on Loch Promenade.

The Council’s Executive Committee is seeking to provide £16,000 towards the manufacture and installation of artwork panels commissioned by the Department of Infrastructure (DOI).

The DOI previously secured planning approval for the panels, with the Council having agreed to provide illumination for the artwork.

Following a public call for submissions, three local artists were commissioned to create 15 designs celebrating Douglas and the Isle of Man’s heritage, culture and coastal environment.

The artwork formed part of the original plans for the sea defence scheme, but the costs associated with manufacturing and installing the panels were not included in the DOI’s funding bid.

The proposed Council contribution is intended to help address the funding shortfall and allow the project to proceed.

The DOI will remain responsible for managing and maintaining the artwork once installed.

The Council has said robust sea defences remain fundamental to the long-term future of Douglas Promenade.

Completing the remaining sections of the scheme is expected to help protect public infrastructure and improve the capital’s resilience to increasingly severe coastal conditions.

Council Leader, Devon Watson, said: ‘The sea defence wall is an important piece of infrastructure and these artworks will help transform it into an attractive public feature that reflects the character of our city and celebrates the creativity of local artists.

‘Protecting our coastline is essential, not only for today’s residents and businesses, but also for the future development of our seafront.

‘This is another example of the Council working positively with the Department of Infrastructure to deliver improvements for Douglas.’

The Council also said the works would support future investment in the area, including the planned enhancement of Marine Gardens.