DOI insists no decisions have been made on 20mph speed limits

It's after a number of poles have been installed around Douglas and Onchan

The Department of Infrastructure insists no decisions have been taken around the speed limit for any location on the Island.

It's after concerns were raised when a number of signage poles were installed in Douglas and Onchan.

The department is currently carrying out a consultation on the implementation of 20mph speed limits in residential areas.

Infrastructure Minister, Michelle Haywood, says new poles will either introduce a new speed limit or repeat existing limits depending on the outcome of the consultation.

An incorrectly installed pole in Onchan has been described as a defect by the contractor and will be corrected at no cost to the DOI.

The value of the contract to install the new poles is said to be included in the overall expected cost of the project, which is £400,000.

The consultation closes on Friday 4 July.

You can view the proposals and leave feedback here.

In a statement, Dr Haywood said: "I am aware of the confusion that has been caused by the installation of infrastructure associated with the introduction of 20mph speed limits within the residential areas of Onchan and Douglas.

"This has led to people being concerned that the Department has predetermined the outcomes of the current consultation and I want to reassure that this is not the case and apologise for the confusion.

"We are very much listening to what people are telling us about the extent of the 20mph areas and which streets should or should not be included.

"No decisions have been made yet and won’t be until the consultation closes on July 4 and all the comments received have been considered. 

"In light of the concerns raised about the preparatory work associated with this initiative, we are taking time to review the work that has been carried out and resolve any issues with misplaced posts.

"We won’t be installing any more posts until any issues have been dealt with. 

"I would like to reassure everyone again that no decisions have been taken yet, all those with views and comments on the Department’s proposals about which streets and roads within Douglas and Onchan should be included are urged to respond to the consultation which is closing on July 4. 

"Once decisions have been made as to the extent of the scheme, any remaining poles and the appropriate signage will then be installed to reflect the Traffic Orders that bring the scheme into force."

However, an MHK says he's 'absolutely sure' that 'due political process' has not been followed when it comes to the introduction of 20mph zones around the Isle of Man.

Douglas Central representative Chris Thomas says members missed a trick by not supporting his amendment in Tynwald that would've required the Department of Infrastructure to report back before implementation started.

He also declared that he's 'minded' to move a motion on the topic at a House of Keys sitting later this month: