Ronaldsway airport's security area is to be revamped after complaints about queues there.

The Department of Infrastructure says it will involve "significant investment" in equipment as well as in the additional staffing needed to operate the second scanning line at busy times.

These changes are expected to cost about £300,000.

The move comes after a lot of criticism about the length of queues at Ronaldsway.

The entrance to the central security area is to be moved and will continue to include a separate dedicated route for passengers requesting assistance, such as those with reduced mobility or medical needs, or those attending hospital appointments in the UK.

Automatic boarding card readers will be installed at the new entrance to improve information to the airlines and speed the entire process.

The security area will be remodelled, increasing in size by 160 square metres, allowing more space for passengers to prepare their hand luggage, liquids and gadgets before reaching the security equipment.

A further improvement will see an automatic tray return system integrated with the X-ray equipment, enabling several passengers to put their belongings on to the X-ray queue at the same time.

The DoI’s contractor has been asked to recruit the additional staff needed to allow the second X-ray line to be operated at peak time.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said: ‘I understand passengers’ frustrations and much work has taken place to find the most effective solution and obtain the necessary approvals to make the changes. I would like to thank passengers for their continuing patience while these improvements are being made.’

Tim Baker MHK, political member for the DoI’s ports division, said: ‘We want to get this right and have looked at a range of options. We are determined we get value for money, and that the solutions are sustainable for the long term.

‘As soon as we have a confirmed programme of works, which it’s hoped will start shortly after Easter following final confirmation of equipment delivery times, the department will provide more details.’Mr Harmer told Tynwald in October that the contractor had suggested the annual cost of operating the second line of security scanning for two daily peaks would be about £150,000.