Three local authorities have praised the introduction of branding for their communities as a way to highlight their independent character.

Port Erin, Laxey and Ramsey commissioners have welcomed the scheme, which was launched by Business Isle of Man - the government’s body whose remit is to build the economy and attract new businesses to the island - and the Department for Enterprise last year.

The Department for Enterprise announced the scheme as it began holding meetings in towns and villages, asking for people to contribute ideas on what they thought represented their community the best.

So far, Port Erin and Laxey have received their new logos, which draw on what makes their villages distinctive and special.

Port Erin’s logo captures a scene from the village’s sea front and reflects on the water sports which have become so popular in recent years all with Milner’s Tower looking down across the bay from Bradda Head.

A spokesman for Business Isle of Man said: ’The logo was presented to Port Erin Commissioners and Traders’ Association on November 11.

’There was very positive feedback about the concept, including how mini ’sticker’-style logos could be used in conjunction with other initiatives being undertaken in the town.

’The logo and branding guidelines have now been completed and delivered to Port Erin for use.’

Laxey’s logo, presents a snapshot of the village’s main tourist attractions, the Manx Electric Railway, complete with the iconic station building complete with green roof and Laxey proudly painted on top.

The logo was presented to Garff Commissioners as well as local businesses in January. It was ’well received’ said the spokesman who added that discussions were held to decide how best to use the logo.

One idea was for the logo to be placed on flags around the village as way makers which ’was considered important given Laxey’s geography’.

Garff Commissioners’ chairman Jamie Smith said: ’The commissioners would like to thank Business Isle of Man for an engaging presentation that really captured the essence of what gives Laxey its unique and exceptional identity.

’Business Isle of Man has consulted very closely with the local business community and it’s very exciting to see the range of marketing initiatives being brought forward to raise Laxey’s profile as a great place to live and as a destination for visitors from both on and off the island. There is a clear desire locally to "buy-in" to the project and a realisation that the collaborative approach it encourages will assist in developing the village in ways that will bring benefits for visitors, residents, and for the local economy.’

branding

Ramsey and Port St Mary will be the next places to receive their branding.

The designs are being finalised.

Despite the wait, the chairman of Ramsey Commissioners, Andy Cowie, said the north’s biggest local authority was ’supportive of the work led by the Department for Enterprise through Business Isle of Man to introduce a co-ordinated branding approach and help to create and promote a unique town brand identity’.

He added: ’The project will help to increase awareness of the wide range of attractions, independent retail outlets and the great variety of high quality food and drink available within Ramsey.

’We hope this will help to increase the number of visitors who can enjoy the town’s facilities from both on and off island.’

The branding project aims to publicise the attractions, shops, accommodation and food and drink establishments in each area and contribute to development and regeneration works.