It is not yet clear in what form the Douglas Bay Horse Trams will operate next year as promenade works continue.

The operation of the capital’s horse trams has been one of the more contentious issues during the ongoing promenades regeneration scheme.

Throughout 2019, the trams have been operating with civil servants, contractors and the Department of Infrastructure citing ’contractual obligations’ for its continued operations.

And it appears that the trams will run in some form next year, however it is not yet known exactly how.

A DoI spokesman said: ’Discussions will take place between departments on next year’s horse tram season, with the aim of providing a service that delivers a valued tourist attraction while ensuring the needs of businesses and residents are met during the Douglas Promenade refurbishment scheme.

Flexible

’Flexible arrangements may be considered with regard to the length of the season and track distance, and full details will be announced when options have been fully considered.’

However, on the government website, the operating season for the island’s heritage railways have been announced.

The horse trams were originally listed as set to run from April 7 until November 1.

Tthe website has since been updated to reflect the statement provided by the DoI.

The issue of running the horse trams has been criticised by several residents and businesses owners this year, however contractual obligations has always been given as the reason behind it.

When asked earlier this year why contractors were focusing on the tram track rather than the roadway, the DoI replied: ’The department has contractual obligations to maintain the operation of the horse tram service during the 2019 season, hence the requirement to install the new section of tram corridor to allow a temporary operation.’

Isle of Man Newspapers asked for a copy of any contract that stipulates the horse trams had to run under Freedom of Information.

The DoI sent us some photocopied holiday brochures and a draft copy of British legislation. We are currently awaiting an internal review on the information provided and plan to appeal to the information commissioner if the department will not produce the contracts.