Construction of the ferry terminal in Liverpool paid for by Manx taxpayers can start in the summer after planning approval was confirmed today.

The terminal will be constructed at Princes Half-Tide Dock, 675 metres downriver of the current Pier Head facility.

Contractor John Sisk and Sons Limited has been appointed to construct the facility, which is due to be completed by late 2020, following a full tender process.

Funding for the construction phase is subject to approval from Tynwald. the overall cost is forecast to be £31.3m.