Call for interest in managing campsite popular with TT visitors

A search has begun for a firm to manage a campsite popular with TT visitors.

The call by the Manx government follows a consultation on the Sulby Claddagh site's future after it was closed to overnight campers due to rising costs.

The survey found 43% of respondents wanted a community group to manage the site, while some called for improvements such as toilet facilities.

Firms have now been asked to express their interest in running the site on behalf of the government.

In February, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) said the site would not open in 2023 as it ran at a "significant loss".

Following concerns raised by nearby businesses about lost revenue without visiting campers during the TT fortnight, the department agreed the site could open between 22 May to 18 June.

A six-week consultation over the future of the site was then launched to gather views on what it should be used for and which facilities it should feature if it were to remain as a campsite.

About 16% of those responding felt it was "crucial" for campers to have access to facilities such as toilets, shower blocks and waste and water facilities for drinking and washing.

While many of the contributors thought a community group should run the facility, 22% said they believed the DEFA should continue its management, while a further 17% said a private operator should take it over.

Through the issue of camping permits, which jumped in cost from £16 in 2022 to £100 in 2023, the department estimated an average of 2,300 camping visitors used the site each year.

Anyone interested in taking on the management of the site, and potential improvement of facilities, has until 10 November to express an interest.

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