Local politicians have voted to back plans by the government to build new sea walls in Laxey, despite opposition in the village.

The Department of Infrastructure has previously stated that Garff Commissioners would have the final say on whether they go ahead.

Designed to protect against rising sea levels, the plans include a wall along the village promenade with a raised walkway and a harbour wall.

Commissioners agreed to support the scheme at a meeting held on Wednesday, provided conditions on issues over disabled access, harbour access and parking are met.

It comes after months of deliberation by residents, MHKs and the local authority over the perceived benefits of the scheme.

The commissioners first voted on the proposal for a harbour wall along Tent Road, which was passed with six for one against.

Members also approved the more hotly-debated 1.2-metre promenade wall, which would taper in height to the slipway, with five for and two against.

One commissioner, Julie Pinson, was unable to take part in the vote after being deemed to have a conflict of interest.

Infrastructure officials have yet to submit any formal planning application, although it is understood that plans will now soon emerge following the local authority’s backing.

While debating the issue, commissioner Marinda Faragher said: ’We have to be responsible and back this, protecting residents.’

Those sentiments were echoed by commissioner Peter Kinnish, who said: ’It’s on the table, there’s money behind it and if we don’t back it and the worst happens, it’s on our heads.’

Commissioner Jamie Smith voted against the proposal.

He said: ’I don’t think it’s the right solution or the right time, and I don’t have confidence in the DoI to carry this out.’

Before the vote, members had the opportunity to question former Laxey harbour master John Cowley about his experience of the village beach and river management.

There was also opportunity to view a video presentation by JBA Consulting on the merits of various sea defences in protecting against coastal over-topping.

On Tuesday evening, senior weatherman Adrian Cowin gave a presentation to the board on the changing weather and predicted sea level rise.