The request sought internal correspondence and timelines regarding a temporary one-way traffic order on Castle Street, Castletown, to facilitate scaffolding for the Derby House redevelopment. The request was ultimately withdrawn by the applicant on 29 November 2021, though the response documents included internal emails discussing the proposal and its impact on bus services.
Key Facts
The request was made to the Department of Infrastructure regarding a temporary traffic regulation order on Castle Street.
The proposed works involved renovating Derby House into a wine bar, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel.
Scaffolding for the works would encroach onto the roadway, creating a pinch point that could not accommodate buses.
Internal correspondence indicates the proposal required formal consultation with a 14-day period for comments.
The Freedom of Information request was withdrawn on 29 November 2021.
Data Disclosed
2021-09-15
2021-11-29
24 May 2021
19 May 2021
18 May 2021
14 day
12 month
68 pages
7 documents
1993641
Section 55 of The Highways act 1986
Section 3 of The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1985
Original Request
Please provide copies of all internal correspondence between officers of the Department of infrastructure, specifically Bus Vannin, Highway Services, Minister for Infrastructure and any other political members in relation to the proposed temporary traffic regulation order on Castle Street, Castletown in order to facilitate the proposed works to Derby House, Castle Street.
Please also provide a time line from receipt of the application by the Department, to delivery to the Minister for consideration and confirm that the application has been treated in the same manner as all other applications considered Under section 55 of The Highways act 1986 pursuant to section 3 of The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1985.
If the application has been treated differently to a routine application, please confirm under whose instruction this had been done. If the Department can provide other examples of an isle of Man Government consultation in relation to scaffolding, evidence of the same would be welcomed.
https://www.gov.im/news/2021/jun/04/consultation-opens-on-temporary-one-way-route-in-castletown/
Data Tables (28)
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
FW: Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown - Watling Traffic
Management
Redacted
Redacte
;Redacted
Redacted
Redacte
Rdeda
Robinson, Jeffrey; Saunders, Gary; Almond, Kevin; Cowin, Tim (DOI);
"Hurrah, about time too. Can't believe it's taken long to implement. THANK YOU."
2
Paver Manager
DoI
04.06.21
email
Y
I have no general comments from a paver manager perspective. The choice of direction seemed opposite to what I would expect, but the description offered an
explanation. As an aside it is lkely the work to install the crossings and speed humps are likely to be going ahead later in the summer, on Victoria Road, Arbory
Road and Also castletown Prom. The first two will be on the route of the one way. I doubt this will have any effect on either works but wanted to mention just in
case. It is lkely traffic lights will be used on these schemes.
3
Redacted
04.06.21
email
Y
This could be the last straw for holiday operators with coaches and cruise ship excursions. Why is Castletown trying to destroy the tourism trade to the island’s
ancient capital. It has 4 top attractions in a half mile radius which is ideal for families and older people. Not only have they reduced the coach parking down to one
space to a point operator are taking it off there itineraries. How do groups get to the Square. I have seen up to 8 coaches at the same time via for parking spaces
on the same day. The coach parking bay that they want to provide forces the vehicle to go through the Square at no point can the vehicle turn round. The answer
given by the town clerk is let them park in Castletown school which then brings up pupil safety. This latest crazy idea will close it to any tourism trade. Well done
4
Redacted
04.06.21
email
Y
I would like to make the comment that the one way diversion for Castletown would be better the other way. I,m sure most householders living at Scarlett and Farrants
way would find it easier to travel along Arbory road and out onto the bypass. Traffic coming into Castletown from Douglas would then just turn left at the
roundabout as usual instead of having to almost double back by coming the other way.
5
Redact
bus user
04.06.21
email
Y
As a bus user I hope the south buses will not have to go as far as the Square and then round again. There has been enough disruption to the buses at the
moment. The north buses used to go via Bypass to the old brewery then turn and continue on their way. South buses went to brewery, turn and continued via
bypass completely missing the Square.
6
Redacte
resident
04.06.21
email
Y
My concern would be that traffic would use Bank Street as a 'rat run' to access the square. Follow up comments: Having reviewed the plans for the temporary one
way system through Castletown, I have concerns on health and safety grounds, that Bank Street will become a 'rat-run' and car park for quick access to the square.
there is already a considerable problem with illegal parking and speeding. The speed limit is twenty mph reducing to ten mph and no
parking at any time.
If as proposed drivers are prevented access to the square via Castle Street, they will opt for easiest option i.e. across Thirtle Bridge and up Bank Street to park.
A suggestion would be to make Bank Street temporarily one way i.e. from the Crofts junction, along Malew Street and down Bank Street to the harbour. 'No Entry'
signs placed at the bottom of Bank Street.
If the Malew Street / Bank Street area is then policed rigorously the parking and speeding issues would be reduced making the area considerably safer for pedestrians
and residents.
This option would inconvenience residents however it would be better than the alternative
7
Redacte, Project Manager
D.O.I. re 20mph
project
04.06.21
email
Y
The DoI will be starting work at three strategic locations around Castletown within the coming months, they are:
1. Victoria Road
2. Arbory Road
3. Promenade
We will be constructing kerb to kerb flattop humps at these locations and they will require temporary road closures and or traffic lights, this will be agreed once we
have selected the main contractors.
In addition, busses travelling out of Castletown Square towards Bridge street, take up the full carriageway width to enable them to manoeuvre the tight bend at
the Gluepot pub. We believe that any obstruction put on the highway i.e. scaffolding could be a cause of potential accidents.
8
Redacted
resident
04.06.21
email
Y
I would like to strongly oppose the plans to make the main arterial route into and out of Castletown one way. This is extremely detrimental to all the residents at
the outer extremities of this propose route and totally detrimental to Castletown.
It should also be taken into account the plan to close the shopping streets for supposed refurbishment wasting an exorbitant amount of taxpayers money on an
unneeded vanity project. The combination of these two “plans” would totally decimate any footfall into the Town.
Furthermore I do not believe this 12 month period to be a definitive time scale I would strongly suggest this is the trojan horse for a permanent traffic plan making
this route permanently one way.
9
Redact
04.06.21
email
Y
Yes I do agree with the one way system,if the work has to be done, it has to be done.
10
Redact
resident
05.06.21
email
Y
Mental
ref
Respondent Details
Response Summary
Name of Respondent
Interest Group
Date Response
Received
Method
Option 1:
Objects
to
Proposal
Option
2:
Support
s
Proposa
l
Option 3:
Proposed
amends
No
opinion /
To be kept
informed
Comments Pertinent to Consultation
11
Redacted
resident
05.06.21
email
Y
I am writing regarding the proposal to make Castle St 1-way for a year, diverting traffic via the bypass.
Surely there must be another solution for the property being worked on other than scaffolding, ie access tower or platform. If scaffold is the absolute only option.
does it need to be in situ in its entirety for the whole 12 months period?
An entire year of inconvenience, extra fuel costs and extra journey time for thousands of people to get to Castletown seems completely out of proportion to 1
property having work carried out on it. Needless to say this will likely have a negative effect on our local shops who have already suffered terribly over the
pandemic. It isn't fair to our town's residents or businesses.
Maybe the contactors/owners could look at alternatives to scaffolding and pay the extra expense if it is a financial decision to use scaffold
12
Redacted
05.06.21
email
Y
would like to object to the proposed 12 month one way application. There's several factors that make this a bad idea.
The one way system is disproportionate to the public interest: all residents living in and around the square will be negatively impacted, as well as the buses, for
the benefit of a property owner. Not only this, more often than not building projects overrun and we probably are talking about longer than a year.
would like to object to the proposed 12 month one way application. There's several factors that make this a bad idea.
The one way system is disproportionate to the public interest: all residents living in and around the square will be negatively impacted, as well as the buses, for
the benefit of a property owner. Not only this, more often than not building projects overrun and we probably are talking about longer than a year.
13
Redacted
resident
05.06.21
email
Y
I disagree with making the road through Castletown one way because it would be detrimental for the town. I would certainly think twice before making a trip
because of the extra inconvenience of the detour. I also think it will put visitors off too.
14
Redacted
07.06.21
email
Y
In response to a news article about making the road past the old police station in Castletown one way, I would like to express the view that it should be considered
making it a one way street permanently. The street is not really wide enough to accommodate two way traffic, especially if buses are involved. It would also make
it easier to navigate the blind corner when you exit the square going southbound for you made it one way too
15
Redacted
Bus Vannin
08.06.21
email
Y
Bus Vannin wishes to formally object to the proposed to make Castle Street in Castletown temporarily one way, northbound for approximately one year for the
following reasons:
1. Passenger inconvenience
The 1 group of services from Onchan & Douglas to Port Erin via Castletown carried 1,455,000 passengers in the year before covid of which 388,880 would be
involved in this diversion. Whilst the additional time for this diversion is only 7 minutes that will actually cost 45,369 hours of passengers time in the year. If
Castletown was not served then around half of these passengers would have to walk to the bypass, again costing additional time. Whilst this time will not all be
lost to those who are economically active, the Department does not discriminate between the value of passengers who are economically active and pay and fare
and those who are travelling for social purposes or may not pay a fare. Even using the dated UK DFT figure of £15.64 per hour this equates to a potential cost to
the economy of £709,571.16 over the year.
2. Operating costs which need to be covered
This diversion would require an additional bus to be used to cover the additional running time required. The average cost of a bus in the fleet is £137,000 per
year which needs funding from somewhere. The additional mileage is 30,836 for the diversion on the basic service. School buses and the rural services will also
be affected with time and cost penalties. If this cannot be funded we have to consider not serving Castletown, which will be to the significant detriment of
residents and businesses in the area.
3. Public Transport v private car
It will be tempting for passengers who cannot return home by bus or who are unhappy with the extra time taken to choose to abandon the bus for a year and
resort to private transport to move to using their cars. This will create a loss of income, so the closure will cost the taxpayer either in diversion costs or in lost
revenue. This will also have an environmental impact. This is just the opposite to the approach take as part of the Government’s climate emergency envisages in
promoting public transport use.
4. Effect on Bus Drivers
The delay to the last bus takes the duty outside the Working Agreement with staff. This will mean that the service will almost certainly have to be terminated
earlier in the evening, to the detriment of passengers.
5. When is this proposed to happen?
Redacted (Cont.)
The consultation is silent on the proposed timing of this order and the other works likely to be taking place at the same time. Currently this route is delayed by 5
to 8 minutes by the road works at Derby Castle, Douglas Promenade, Pulrose Bridge, and Ballasalla by pass. At certain times the delays reach 20 minutes causing
bus services to become unreliable. We are aware of further proposals to close the road at Santon for reconstruction with more lengthy diversions proposed. The
coordination of the various works needs to be considered as well. We also require 3-6 months’ notice to change the bus schedules to add the extra bus,
depending on the time taken by the RTLC to approve the application.
There is a viable alternative to make Castle Street bus only (and emergency vehicles) for this period maintaining the bus service and cars all driving around via the
bypass. This is possible without temporary traffic lights as the buses are not schedules to pass on this road. The normal crossing point for buses is in the Arbory
Road/Red Gap area. Any out of sequence operation is controlled via Tetra Radio as it is elsewhere on the bus network. If this were not thought to be reliable a
system of bus bollards could be installed to prevent use by unauthorised vehicles. The cost of the planned closure to the economy is very high; the cost of an
alternative bus only route protected by rise and fall bollards is comparatively small.
ref
Respondent Details
Response Summary
Name of Respondent
Interest Group
Date Response
Received
Method
Option 1:
Objects
to
Proposal
Option
2:
Support
s
Proposa
l
Option 3:
Proposed
amends
No
opinion /
To be kept
informed
Comments Pertinent to Consultation
16
Redacted
Transport
Services Project
Manager and part
time bus driver
08.06.21
email
Y
I wish to object to the proposed one way system through Castletown Square. It is a half hearted measure that will annoy everyone and is unnecessarily
expensive. My suggested alternative would be to simply close the road to all traffic except buses, which can regulate themselves by TETRA radio. My reasons are
as follows:
Bus passengers will be severely inconvenienced, and those that can will drive instead, adding to congestion and air quality concerns in this historic location. This is
contrary to the government’s own climate change policies.
Bus drivers will be subjected to unnecessary conflict with their passengers. I drive buses at night, and many passengers travel to and from Castletown. The
diversion will add unnecessary time to the journey, and will give rise to possible conflict with inebriated passengers that are annoyed that the bus has not gone the
way they expected.
Bus passengers that have a choice of location for their activities will choose others, such as Peel or Laxey.
The diversion will cost 7 minutes per journey. That’s 7 minutes extra driving for the staff, 7 minutes extra fuel, 7 minutes extra tyre wear. At a time when the
government is under pressure to save money that is a significant cost. There are as many as 72 journeys per day in each direction through the square.
Castletown is a historic and beautiful location that the island should be proud of, and my suggestion will maintain full access for all, whilst showing that the town
and the island cares about the local environment. The proposed scheme, however, simply concedes that bus passengers are second class citizens, and that
congestion, air quality and increased private car transport is not worthy of any kind of consideration.
17
Redacted
Castletown
Commissioners
08.06.21
email
Y
My Board discussed the proposed temporary one way in Castle Street and can confirm that they are supportive of the proposals which will facilitate much needed
investment in one of the towns registered buildings. It is also noted that the concept of a One Way in included in the Departments 15 yr road map for Castletown
and this temporary restriction will no doubt offer an indication into the viability of a longer term restriction.
The “consultation” does however appear to be rather lacking in information, is there an information pack buried somewhere on the Departments website or is it
just the screenshot of Castletown on the Facebook page ?
I would also be grateful if you could confirm that this process will now be used for all construction led TRO applications.
18
Redacted
08.06.21
email
Y
Iom gov, I have been of the opinion for many years and have brought it to the attention of Castletown commissioners that large heavy goods vehicles should not
be allowed on the road from the bridge on Victoria rd - to the end of farrants way at the rear of the co op, if two turning areas or round abouts were put in place
in these areas there would be no need for busses or other large vehicles to use the extremely narrow roads around the harbour/ castle and square of our historic
town without loss of any bus stops, they simply retrace their route via the round about to the ballalough junction for onward travel the same as happens in PSM
no2 bus, there is clearly sufficient space to do this, while the current application is in place if it happens why don’t you be proactive instead of reactive and make it
permanent, this would be the perfect time to do it, it would also improve safety in the town centre, relieve vehicular congestion and protect the infrastructure of
the town centre and the castle.
19
Redacted
08.06.21
email
Y
Not sure why its been suggested to have the traffic going in a northbound direction ( but there may be a good reason). I'm a little concerned if the traffic from
Douglas etc is diverted up the bypass into Castle town, that people may bypass the town completely & drive into Port Erin as its easier to park & less hassle.
Businesses will suffer get again. Suggest traffic comes in from Douglas past Victoria Road School ( southbound) instead if possible. Castle town will be in enough
disruption in January when Arbory/Malew St are dug up.
20
Redacted
08.06.21
email
Y
I am writing to say that I disagree with Castletown being a one way system and the inconvenience that the general public will have to endure. This is a private
development and yet the tax payer is having to fund the redirection of traffic and the creation of the one way system. Surely scaffolding can be erected that does
not interfere with the roadway or another way found for carrying out alterations to the building instead of inconveniencing Castletown residents and drivers. Also
why should bus passengers be inconvenienced with some passengers having to walk further to catch a bus.
21
Redacted
10.06.21
email
Y
1. Bank Street into Malew Street (and reverse).
2. Milner Terrace, into Malew Street and the Crofts / Arbory Street (and reverse) could become issues.
22
Redacted
resident
10.06.21
email
Y
I write in response to an articulate today seeking feedback on the proposal to convert Castle Street to one way traffic (north bound) for a period of up to 12
months.
In short as a Castletown resident I am supportive of this move as the alternative to not doing so is likely to cause much greater disruption.
However, if this action was taken I would strongly request that due consideration is given to further parking restrictions on the upper section of Farrant’s Way. Cars
are increasingly parking on the upper corner outside of two garages that are there. The parking creates significant obstruction of visibility to oncoming vehicles
often leaving drivers no choice but to commit to the over take of the parked cars only to get full visibility of the road once fully on the side of the oncoming traffic.
The one way restriction on Castle Street would increase the volume of traffic passing down and then up this section of Farrant’s Way which I strongly believe would
result in incidents occurring. It was only a few years ago that a car rolled in this very spot demolishing a garden fence and resulting in a lamp post being damaged -
the replacement lamp post and garden wall is visible in the second photo attached.
I have attached two photos, one showing a ‘dropped pin’ of the difficult area on a map the second showing what is typical in terms of parking - the second picture
is very normal but by no means as bad as that section of road can be
ref
Respondent Details
Response Summary
Name of Respondent
Interest Group
Date Response
Received
Method
Option 1:
Objects
to
Proposal
Option
2:
Support
s
Proposa
l
Option 3:
Proposed
amends
No
opinion /
To be kept
informed
Comments Pertinent to Consultation
23
Redact
resident
10.06.21
email
Y
I wish to object to the proposal of a temporary one way system for Castle Street, Castletown and submit the following comments.
It is stated that there will be disruption to the south bound bus services but no details of how this disruption will manifest itself has been forthcoming, Therefore I
am concerned the it will seriously effect vulnerable persons who must now travel to Castletown Post Office as there is no longer facilities in Ballasalla. Will they
have to walk from the bypass?
Access to businesses in Castletown from the south by car will involve a longer journey therefore more expense and pollution, very likely resulting in less trade for
businesses trying to recover from a difficult trading year.
The timescale for this, one year, is grossly excessive for the renovation of one property, there are building companies on the island that can construct a housing
estate in less time, and therefore I strongly believe that it grossly unfair to inflict this much inconvenience on the general public for one private property, especially
following many other disruptive schemes such as at Richmond Hill and Douglas Road Ballasalla.
Finally I strongly suggest that you urge the property owner to explore other options that involve much less disruption and in a shorter time
24
Redacted
resident
15.06.21
email
Y
I am a Castletown resident and applaud the investment into the town and therefore have no objection. However, I do believe it should come with a no exception
end date - so not longer than 12 months from closure.
25
Redacted
business
16.06.21
email
Y
Letter outlining reasons for objecting
26
Manx Auto Sport
Event organiser
16.06.21
email
Y
Raised a number of concerns to be addressed before road could be made one way: I write to express the following concerns in relation to the proposed one-way
temporary system in Castle Street, Castletown.
This e-mail is sent on behalf of Manx Auto Sport and highlights the impact of the proposed “one-way system” in Castle Street, Castletown on the Manx National
Rally scheduled to take place on 13/14 May 2022.
The Rally has been held annually on the Island for over 50 years and is a valuable asset to the Island’s economy and recognised across the UK, Ireland and
Europe.
The event is a round of the Motorsport UK Asphalt Championship and as such gets media coverage across the above regions. Castletown is an iconic stage in
rallying terms and is recognised across the rallying world.
It is not so much the one-way system, but the scaffolding and hoarding that would be placed around the building works which would impact on the event and to
such an extent the Castletown Stage could not be able to be run due to safety concerns.
At this time it is also worthwhile highlighting the other building works taking place on the Quay side near to Speakers Gardens where containers have been located
for some considerable time now.
Any agreed Road Closure Order could accommodate the stage running in the appropriate direction.
Added to the above will be the inconvenience to the residents of Castletown in respect to access to public transport. What will be put in place to minimise this?
All deliveries and Public Transport to the town will have to enter from Arbory Road with the additional congestions and potential hazards these traffic movements
will create on businesses and properties in the area.
Road users will undoubtedly look at short cutting through Mill and Malew Streets onto the Crofts as well as Bank Street via Malew Street and up the Crofts - both
areas already of higher risk under normal conditions.
Although we have expressed our concerns we are not opposed to the building development and welcome investment in the town – Its good that someone is
27
Redacted
resident
16.06.21
letter
Y
Supports the one way and recommends that the one way be considered permanrently to improve pedestrian safety
ref
Respondent Details
Response Summary
Name of Respondent
Interest Group
Date Response
Received
Method
Option 1:
Objects
to
Proposal
Option
2:
Support
s
Proposa
l
Option 3:
Proposed
amends
No
opinion /
To be kept
informed
Comments Pertinent to Consultation
28
Redacte
resident
16.06.21
email
Y
29
Redacte
resident
17.06.21
email
Y
I am a resident of Castletown and wish to log my objection to this proposal for the following reasons. First and foremost the absolute inconvenience this will cause
people going about their daily lives getting in and out of Castletown. I understand this could be going on for a year which is a depressing thought. It will cause
harm to retailers, many of whom are small independents and other businesses in the town who are already struggling post-pandemic. Also there are other works
planned by the DOI in the town to repave Malew and Arbory Street (planning app.21/00471/B) which will cause further upheaval. It will have a negative impact
on attracting visitors here, one more reason not to bother visiting a town already going through a hard time.
30
Reda
18.06.21
email
Y
My only observation is that it cannot possibly take 12 months of external work requiring scaffold. If that duration has been accepted without challenge then it
would appear that you just believe whatever people say. A realistic program would be IRO 26-30 weeks depending on specialist consultation and permission
periods; 12 months is miles off.
I applaud the efforts of the developers, investment is necessary and I think we should all be grateful that they are doing so, but they have had Parliament Square
for years as it is. There doesn’t appear to be much urgency.
As for the one-way system, if it’s not possible for buses/ HGV’s to pass without sweeping through then there is no alternative and it is a fait accompli.
If it’s just for when two buses meet, they should be able to manage that with communication (at present they sometimes bottleneck at Compton House, which is
poor).
31
Redact
resident
18.06.21
letter
Y
Appreciates difficult undertaking but questioned length of restriction - felt 12 months too long. Believes work should take 6 weeks and traffic signals should be
used for duration. Believes inconvenience to others too significant due to length of restriction.
32
Redacted
18.06.21
email
Y
Thank you for your email, I have never heard that
the DOI wanted a one way street in Castletown I have heard that the Commissioners have wanted a one way street though. I agree with you that I don’t think it will
take a year to complete the works, but I have spoken to the owners and the year is only put down as the longest it should take as they have to put a protective shroud
over the building to protect the coving and ceilings which I understand the conservation officer has advised.
If you would like to discuss further please give me a call
33
RPU
Police
Y
Sorry for the delay in replying, I have been speaking to my colleagues down south about this.
The constabulary do not make any formal objections to this, in fact welcome the scheme which will see the private section help revitalise Castletown.
Reading the TM provided by the contractor, I get the reason for the one way system in its current flow, but would it be possible for the one way to start at the
corner of the old Police Station, which would give easier access to the quay parking
ref
Respondent Details
Response Summary
Name of Respondent
Interest Group
Date Response
Received
Method
Option 1:
Objects
to
Proposal
Option
2:
Support
s
Proposa
l
Option 3:
Proposed
amends
No
opinion /
To be kept
informed
Comments Pertinent to Consultation
34
Redact
resident
17.06.21
email
Y
I write to express the following concerns in relation to the proposed one-way temporary system in Castle Street, Castletown.
My primary concerns are as follows:
The volume of traffic that will be created on Arbory Road as a direct result of the one way system.
The section of road from the Southern 100 club house passing the entrance to Ballalough Estate can be dangerous under normal traffic conditions particularly at peak
times. Speed on the approach to the estate entrance is on many occasions excessive. Should the one way system be approved the situation will become more
hazardous and no doubt incidents will unfortunately take place and undoubtedly increase.
If approval is given, strict traffic management MUST be put in place and speed restrictions included within, as a mandatory requirement.
Furthermore the above will equally apply to the approach to Castle Rushen High School, The Buchan School and the Friends Provident Building.
Added to this, construction works are ongoing with the first phase of the new Castle Rushen High School playing fields with large commercial vehicles going in and
out of that site.
Another area of real concern is the Farrant’s Way section for southerly inward direction to the town. At the best of times when coming onto Farrant’s Way from the
southerly direction, parked vehicles on the left hand side of the road push you out into the middle of the carriageway – this will be compounded should approval be
given. Parking restrictions will undoubtably be required in my professional opinion to reduce the risk and likelihood of incidents along this and other section of
Farrant’s Way and Arbory Road.
Added to the above will be the inconvenience to the people of Castletown in respect to access to public transport. What will be put in place to minimise this?
All deliveries and Public Transport to the town will have to enter from Arbory Road with the additional congestions and potential hazards these traffic movements
will create.
TOTALS
14
8
6
6
Road users will undoubtedly look at short cutting through Mill and Malew Streets onto the Crofts as well as Bank Street via Malew Street and up the Crofts both
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
Full Response Text
1
From:
Davis, Paul
Sent:
24 May 2021 14:37
To:
Cc:
Subject:
FW: Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown - Watling Traffic
Management
Attachments:
Castletown
Hi
Please see below thread which is hopefully self-explanatory.
Could you help us put something together to communicate it please? We would align its release to the
consultation which would give a 14 day period for comments, objections etc.
Kind regards
Paul
Paul Davis l Regulations Manager
I can help with road traffic orders, events on the highway and parking control services.
Highway Services l Department of Infrastructure
Sea Terminal Building, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2RF
Phone: (01624) 686414
Report issues online at: www.reportaproblem.im
From:
(DOI) On Behalf Of Robinson, Jeffrey
Sent: 19 May 2021 11:20
To: Davis, Paul
Cc: Saunders, Gary;
;
Almond, Kevin; Cowin, Tim (DOI); Robinson, Jeffrey
Subject: RE: Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown - Watling Traffic Management
Hi Paul
This needs to go out for formal consultation.
Regards
Jeff
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
Redacte
d
Redacted
Redacted
Redacted
2
From: Davis, Paul Paul.Davis@gov.im
Sent: 18 May 2021 15:52
To: Robinson, Jeffrey Jeffrey.Robinson@gov.im
Cc: Saunders, Gary Gary.Saunders@gov.im;
)
; Almond, Kevin Kevin.Almond@gov.im; Cowin, Tim (DOI) tim.cowin@gov.im
Subject: RE: Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown ‐ Watling Traffic Management
Hi Jeff
Re: Derby House, Castle Street, Castletown - Application for temporary one way
Please see a briefing note below with details of an application seeking a temporary traffic order. Its
feasibility has now been considered by Highway Services (Gary,
Kevin,
and I) and
recommendations are noted below for your consideration. This is subject to the outstanding objection by
buses being resolved.
What
An application has been received seeking a temporary one way system through the Town of Castletown for
a 12 month period.
Where
The affected road is Castle Street, Castletown. The proposed work to be undertaken is on Derby House,
that sits adjacent to that road.
When
The applicant would like to start the work as soon as possible.
Why
Ltd, a property development company, are actively redeveloping several Registered
Buildings in and around Parliament Square, Castletown, all of which will provide quality hospitality/tourist
facilities in the form of restaurants, wine bars, hotels and tourist cottages.
The next phase of their re-development programme proposes the renovation of Derby House (former Post
Office), next to the Old Police Station. This building will be renovated to provide a wine bar, cocktail bar
and boutique hotel.
Aside from the extensive internal renovation works, the externally works required include the re-roofing,
replacement fascias & rainwater goods, replacement/renovation of the sliding sash windows, re-painting of
all external joinery, removal of cement pointing & re-pointing in lime mortar etc, etc.
With this in mind we have had the scaffold designed but it will encroach onto the Castle Street roadway
beyond the edge of the existing footpath. This section of roadway which is currently two way to traffic is a
pinch point already and any further narrowing of the roadway will cause significant dangers to the road
users and pedestrians alike. There is also the risk to the construction personnel using the scaffold.
How
The extent of these works will require a full system designed scaffold enclosure that will envelop the
building in order to ensure that any inclement weather does not cause damage to the historically important
plaster and other features within the building.
Options considered
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1. Do nothing – It is likely the condition of the roof in particular will continue to worsen. Doing nothing
will increase the potential hazard of sections of the roof falling onto the highway with a risk of
injury to pedestrians. If the scaffold was introduced, the road width would be reduced to such
extent that it could not accommodate buses travelling in a southerly direction due to insufficient
turning space. As such, this option was rejected.
2. Road closure – Closing the road to traffic had high impact on buses and emergency services.
Furthermore, whilst the width of the carriageway would be reduced to facilitate scaffold, it could
accommodate traffic in a single direction.
3. Temporary traffic signals – Due to the scaffold overhanging the footway, larger vehicles travelling in
a southerly direction may collide with the scaffold due to the restricted turning space. This would
be the case with buses. As such, this option was rejected.
4. Temporary one way system – Traffic could be accommodated in a single direction. The buses
preference was that it be in a north/Douglas bound direction. There was also insufficient turning
space for larger vehicles in a southbound direction, leaving northbound as the only feasible option.
Impacts
Should a one way system (northbound) be introduced –
The most significant impact affects the bus service and its users. Buses travelling to Douglas would be
unaffected; however, the southbound route would need to divert via the A5 By Pass Road and
Arbory Road to service the Square. This may add up to 7 minutes to the journey time meaning it
would need significant re-scheduling work to the bus timetable and RTLC approval as a
consequence. This work could take up to 6 months.
A single bus stop in the Square would need to accommodate users for both directions.
Inconvenience to local traffic. Local traffic would need to follow the proposed diversion route for the
buses and would cause some minor inconvenience as a result.
Congestion in the area. There may be some congestion on roads in the immediate vicinity due to their
width and increased traffic.
Conclusion
It would be unreasonable of Highway Services to reject the application and not permit the work to take
place. This is due to the wider benefits associated with the work in the Town outweighing its impacts.
There is also a future risk to highway users should the roof fail at a future date.
Recommendations
It is recommended that –
1. A one way traffic restriction in a northerly direction be supported.
2. Subject to successful liaison with buses, approval is given for the work to commence once the
amended bus timetable has been approved.
3. Additional minor traffic management measures be introduced on surrounding roads to mitigate
congestion.
4. Highway Services use the opportunity to collate traffic data incl. speed and flow on adjacent roads to
inform any decision making process should issues arise.
5. Improvement work to bus stop in Castletown Square commence end of June and be completed in
July 2021 by Highway Services.
4
Kind regards
Paul
Paul Davis l Regulations Manager
I can help with road traffic orders, events on the highway and parking control services.
Highway Services l Department of Infrastructure
Sea Terminal Building, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2RF
Phone: (01624) 686414
Report issues online at: www.reportaproblem.im
From: Saunders, Gary
Sent: 14 May 2021 07:59
To:
; Davis, Paul;
Almond, Kevin
Subject: FW: Road closure - Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown - Watling Traffic Management
Gents
Following our meeting this week, please see below email exchange with Nick for your info.
Regards
Gary
Gary Saunders IEng, AMIStructE, MICE, FIHE, MaPS
Construction Manager
Highway Services Division
Department of Infrastructure
Ellerslie Depot
Crosby
Isle of Man, IM4 2HA
Tel: 01624 850048
Mob: 07624 453493
email: gary.saunders@gov.im
From: Black, Nick nick.black@gov.im
Sent: 13 May 2021 21:20
To: Saunders, Gary Gary.Saunders@gov.im
Cc: Robinson, Jeffrey Jeffrey.Robinson@gov.im
Subject: RE: Road closure ‐ Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown ‐ Watling Traffic Management
Thank you Gary
Redacted
Redacted
5
It will probably mean a full bus timetable change- that means RTLC approval so once Jeff has seen the
options paper I will ask him to brief me. It may then be an agreement to the closure but with a start date 6
months ahead. Rewriting the timetable is a complete nightmare as the whole thing is built up from the
timings of the service to the airport and south. It is 3 months work plus at least a 3 month RTLC approval
process.
Can we charge for this work?
Thanks
Nick
Sent from Workspace ONE Boxer
On 13 May 2021 at 19:51:51 GMT+1, Saunders, Gary Gary.Saunders@gov.im wrote:
Nick
I met with the Regulations Team,
and Kevin Almond yesterday to discuss the
application and to review options, Paul is preparing an options paper for Jeff. Having considered all
of the issues the proposal to operate through Castletown on a one way system seems to be the
most practical. We would suggest some additional one way routes to help with flow through side
streets and prevent rat running. We will need to monitor traffic lights on Alexandra Road and may
need to tweak timings, but otherwise the proposal is manageable. I suspect it will be supported by
the commissioners particularly given the level of investment the applicant has made and is planning
for Castletown and will definitely have political support. The building is registered and the owners
have a duty to maintain it. We see no reasonable grounds to refuse the application.
The only reason not to support the application would be that bus timings will be affected.
Regards
Gary
Gary Saunders IEng, AMIStructE, MICE, FIHE, MaPS
Construction Manager
Highway Services Division
Department of Infrastructure
Ellerslie Depot
Crosby
Isle of Man, IM4 2HA
Tel: 01624 850048
Mob: 07624 453493
email: gary.saunders@gov.im
Redacted
6
From: Black, Nick
Sent: 13 May 2021 08:19
To: Saunders, Gary
Cc: Robinson, Jeffrey
Subject: FW: Road closure - Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown - Watling Traffic
Management
Dear Gary
Please see below and attached re the application that you and I have discussed before. There is
clearly going to be a political storm about this so I would welcome an update so that I can go back
to Mrs Christian.
I think that the decision will probably have to be endorsed by the Minister before it is confirmed but
I will determine that once I have your advice.
Thank you
Nick
From: Christian, Claire (MHK) Claire.Christian@gov.im
Sent: 12 May 2021 22:48
To: Black, Nick nick.black@gov.im
Cc: Baker, Tim (MHK) Tim.Baker@gov.im
Subject: Fwd: Road closure ‐ Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown ‐ Watling Traffic
Management
Dear Nick
I hope you are well. Minister Cregeen called me on this today, I asked Ian about it, but he said you
were dealing with it. Would you be able to advise me what is the current situation and view of the
Department.
Thank you
Claire
Mrs Claire Christian, BA (Hons) MHK
Member of the House of Keys for Douglas South
Legislative Buildings
Finch Road
Douglas
IM1 3PW
British Isles
Tel Home: +(44) 1624 622263
Tel Mob: +(44) 7624 209800
Tel Office: +(44) 1624 686166
Email: claire.christian@gov.im
Begin forwarded message:
7
From:
Date: 12 May 2021 at 15:24:25 GMT+1
To: "Christian, Claire (MHK)" Claire.Christian@gov.im
Cc:
,
, "Cregeen, Graham" Graham.Cregeen@gov.im
Subject: Fwd: Road closure - Castle Street adjacent to Derby House, Castletown
- Watling Traffic Management
Caution: This email is from an external sender. Please take care before opening any
attachments or following any links.
Dear Mrs Christian
I understand that Graham Cregeen MHK discussed this matter with you earlier today,
but to reiterate I note the following;
We represent
Ltd, a property development company that are
actively redeveloping several Registered Buildings in and around Parliament Square,
Castletown, all of which will provide quality hospitality/tourist facilities in the form
of restaurants, wine bars, hotels and tourist cottages.
The next phase of their re-development programme proposes the renovation of Derby
House (former Post Office), next to the Old Police Station. This building will be
renovated to provide a wine bar, cocktail bar and boutique hotel.
Aside from the extensive internal renovation works, the externally works required
include the re-roofing, replacement fascias & rainwater goods,
replacement/renovation of the sliding sash windows, re-painting of all external
joinery, removal of cement pointing & re-pointing in lime mortar etc, etc. The extent
of these works will require a full system designed scaffold enclosure that will envelop
the building in order to ensure that any inclement weather does not cause damage to
the historically important plaster and other features within the building.
With this in mind we have had the scaffold designed but it will encroach onto the
Castle Street roadway beyond the edge of the existing footpath. This section of
roadway which is currently two way to traffic is a pinch point already and any further
narrowing of the roadway will cause significant dangers to the road users and
pedestrians alike. There is also the risk to the construction personnel using the
scaffold.
We have fully considered the options available and concluded that the most viable
option is to introduce a one way traffic managed system through Castle Street in the
direction of South to North and have engaged Messrs Watling Street Works to design
and manage this arrangement during the construction phase of the development. Due
to the sensitive nature of the works being on a Registered Building we have suggested
that a 12 month period of management should be suffice although we will endeavour
to complete the works earlier.
I have attached various emails for your information which clearly outline our
proposals. I note that we have the full support of the IOM Government Registered
Buildings Officer, Castletown Commissioners and the Department of Infrastructure
Highways Services Division.
I understand our application has been passed to the DoI Regulations Team but they
are expecting objection from the Bus/IOM Transport Company. We will advise of
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their decision/comments when received but in the meantime you may wish to
investigate. We can be available to discuss the matter on site or telephone at your
convenience should you wish to.
Kind regards
Director
Architectural Design & Consultancy
Isle of Man
Tel:
Email:
This e-mail is confidential and may be privileged. It may be read, copied and used
only by the intended recipient. If you have received it in error, please contact the
sender immediately by return e-mail. Please then delete the e-mail and do not disclose
its contents to any person.
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