Regeneration schemes have already benefited many areas around the island and even smaller towns and villages are hoping to reap the benefits.
This was the view of Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly responding to a question about the composition of the local regeneration committees.
Mr Skelly said towns and villages across the island were represented by six local regeneration committees made up of various representatives including MHKs for the area concerned and MLCs. He said they worked with local commissioners and other interested parties including local businesses and local heritage groups.
‘They oversee the delivery of infrastructure schemes which support their local retail economy,’ he said.
‘More importantly, the committees area proven format for providing successful schemes at the local level with strong community support.’
He added the committees received support from officers in central and local government.
In recognition of the success of the regeneration committees, he said an extension scheme was being piloted
‘It is hoped that the wider remit will build on that success and bring even greater economic benefit to the island’s towns and villages,’ he said.
The latest stage in Ramsey’s regeneration scheme began this week. The scheme has already seen improvements to the town’s main Parliament Street and the area around the former courthouse.
Now the scheme has moved to the market square where work has begun to enhance paving, seating and flower beds while retaining the 66 car parking spaces.
Mr Skelly said Ramsey commissioners were keen to set up a town centre management committee and a town centre manager.
‘Even small villages are looking now at different ways to promote themselves,’ he said.
Mr Skelly acknowledged a note of caution sounded by Douglas South MHK Bill Malarkey who pointed out the scheme in Douglas’s Castle Street remained unfinished because of lack of funds.