The square in Castletown is set for a complete revamp following approval by the Council of Ministers of a plan (14/00373/B) drawn up by Castletown Regeneration Committee (CRC).
The scheme involves the creation of a plaza-style seating area on the castle side of the square and nine parking spaces will be retained on the other side of the square. Traffic will be re-directed so it enters and leaves the square on the George Hotel side of the Smelt monument.
The scheme is flexible and when an event is held, the street furniture can be removed from the plaza area and in the winter months, nine parking spaces in front of the castle will be reinstated. There is also an LED lighting scheme to enhance the area and five trees.
CRC chairman Richard Ronan and town MHK said: ‘Obviously it’s wonderful for Castletown, this has taken the best part of three years to come to fruition, and comes after many, many hours of discussion with organisations in town ... it was very much a team effort, through wide spread consultation we addressed all the concerns.’
There were two objections, Mr Ronan said: ‘I’m pleased the plans were challenged and scrutinised and the plans stood the test of the scrutiny. Castletown can move forward embracing its past whilst recognising its economic future. These plans do that ... There is a bright future for the town, we have had a tough few years. Castletown is a treasure in the Isle of Man, we all have to recognise that and want it to be prosperous and sustainable.’