Scaffolding has gone up around the Cosy Nook lighthouse on Port Erin beach.

The landmark, which is owned by the Department of Infrastructure’s harbours division, is being repainted as part of planned routine maintenance.

Meanwhile the popular Cosy Nook cafe next door is closed for the winter and is unlikely to reopen next season.

Last year, Port Erin Commissioners asked for expressions of interest in the site either being refurbished or redeveloped.

Clerk to the local authority, Jason Roberts, said: ’We understand the lighthouse is simply being repainted under planned routine maintenance.

’There’s no further news on the Cosy Nook café at this stage.

’The property is due to be returned to us in May when the current lease expires.’

A spokesman for the DoI said: ’The scaffolding is in place to allow access to the lighthouse for routine maintenance work and painting.

’It will be in place for a short time after the work is finished to allow staff to undertake training.’