The next phase of redevelopment in Douglas town centre will be to the same standard as the regeneration work in Strand Street, Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK has pledged.

Work is due to start in Duke Street and Castle Street - either side of Strand Street - early next year.

Mr Harmer said: ’The old pink/red concrete paviours in Castle Street and Marina Road from Well Road Lane to Church Road Marina will be replaced with the same natural granite materials successfully used in Duke Street, Strand Street and Regent Street.

’The scheme will include full reconstruction of the street, improved storm water drainage, the replacement and upgrading of the public utility services and new street lighting and street furniture.

He added: ’The proposed regeneration of the section of Duke Street from Victoria Street to North Quay has not yet been designed.

’However, it is anticipated that it will be built to the same standard as the work undertaken in Strand Street and Castle Street.’

The Minister was responding to a Tynwald question from David Ashford (Douglas North), who sought reassurances the work would be of a similar standard to that carried out two years ago.