Now Playing Atb 9Pm (Till I Come)

Castletown Commissioners to 'undertake comprehensive' review of Market Square

Wednesday, 4 June 2025 11:04

By Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper

Picture credit: Manx Radio

A move to close it all year round was seen as a controversial decision

Castletown Commissioners has confirmed it will be undertaking a 'comprehensive' review of Market Square to inform any future policies. 

The local authority currently has approval to close the area to vehicles from March to September each year, and can apply for a restriction during the festive season. 

It says a consultation will be published for the public and interested parties, whilst the board will meet directly with businesses in the town.

Once these are complete, the commissioners says it will then form a strategy for the 'future operations' of the square and ask the infrastructure minister for its approval.

The new board wants to pedestrianise the square during the summer period, and keep 'short term' parking during the remainder of the year.

Previously, it had been decided to close it year-round to vehicles which resulted in a public meeting being held about the matter in November last year.

Chair Tony Brown says: "As part of our considerations, we will be considering seeking delegated powers from the minister to enable the commissioners to have the authority to open and close the Market Square during the period outside of the agreed summer period.

"The board will be working to introduce a new operational and usage policy for the Market Square effective from the 2026 season and onwards." 

More from Isle of Man News