Resident disc zone parking review welcomed

A broad review of resident parking rules has been welcomed by a politician who had called for changes to the system in an "oversubscribed" area of the Manx capital.

John Wannenburgh MHK highlighted a petition that wanted to see parking in disc zone H in upper Douglas converted for resident use only.

During January's sitting of Tynwald, he said he was not opposed to developments but parking was set to become "even more difficult" for those who lived there.

Although the move was not supported, the Infrastructure Minister Michelle Haywood committed to a review of the policies held by the department.

The current zone has time limits for free parking for non-residents between 08:00 and 18:00 GMT on weekdays, but those who live within the area can apply for a permit.

In her petition resident Andrea Krüger raised concerns about the "additional strain" on parking from the redevelopment on Westmoreland Road by the Manx Development Corporation (MDC).

She said parking in the area of the former nurses home development was "oversubscribed and regularly gridlocked" section of the city.

A further scheme by the firm for 133 homes, which covers Westmoreland Road and Demesne Road, was approved by planners in February 2024.

Speaking in Tynwald, Haywood said it would be "manifestly unfair" to residents in all zoned areas "to twiddle with one and leave the others untouched".

The minister said: "As we look for efficiencies, it is only right we examine if permits are a worthwhile activity."

It was important to understand "if they address any problems", she added.

The Department of Infrastructure issues more than 3,500 parking permits each year, which costs about £260,000.

During the sitting Wannenburgh said a "lack of adequate parking produced unattractive animosity between neighbours, causing stress", which was "making the capital an aggressive community".

He argued his proposals, which would have seen no resident parking permits issued for new buildings in the area in Douglas mentioned in the petition, would have "protected the interests of current residents who depend on available parking for all their daily needs".

But, speaking after the move was rejected by members he said he "absolutely welcomed" a broader review of the system and hoped it would begin "sooner rather than later".

Why not follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X? You can also send story ideas to [email protected]