The majority of people think Castletown square should be used as public open space rather than as a car park.

That was the finding of an online survey by the town’s local authority.

Of the 385 responses, 65% (246) felt the primary function should be as public open space and 35% (134) believed it should be used as a car park.

Some 237 of 385 were from people who said they lived in Castletown. Of these, 71% supported a public open space.

Once the future of the fire station site on Farrant’s Way becomes clear, commissioners plan to hold a public consultation so they can develop and adopt a parking strategy for the town.

Commissioners chairman Colin Leather said the authority recognised parking was an ’essential part of a balanced transport network’.

’Car parking has competing demands and it is necessary to manage parking whilst balancing the demands of different user groups such as residents, shoppers, tourists, office workers and tradesmen.

’Castletown Commissioners intend to bring forward a parking strategy, to support the economic vitality and viability of Castletown whilst addressing issues of transport integration, accessibility and parking. In doing so, it will also be essential to promote the use of public transport, cycling and walking in order to reduce car dependency in line with the Isle of Man Government active travel strategy.’