The Infrastructure Minister hopes the regeneration of Douglas' shopping streets will provide a boost to the retail sector.
The likes of Upper Nelson Street and Wellington Street have been relaid so far, with the work also seen as a dry run for tackling Duke Street and Strand Street from March next year.
Despite his hopes, David Cretney ackowledges the high street has a lot of competition these days:
Minister: 'Very live' pressures facing Island families
Parents urged to share their thoughts on childcare
What next for Manx Telecom after Jersey Telecom's acquisition?
CEO discusses plans to bring 5G to the Island - and 20 new masts
Police appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage following Douglas prom incident
Incident happened on Central Promenade around 6.30pm yesterday
Bid to outlaw gazumping and gazundering in IoM property market
MLC wants to 'curtail' the practices
Frank Matcham musical to premiere on Island in October
It will follow his life from his younger days to the Opera House