Ramsey Swing Bridge 'a key line' for businesses 

It's closed for essential repair works 

From today (3 August), residents in Ramsey will not be able to access the swing bridge, as essential repair works get underway.

It is expected to take between two and three weeks to complete. 

During the closure, all traffic will be diverted across the harbour via the nearby stone bridge.

But how will this impact residents? 

Manx Radio's Chanelle Sukhoo spoke to a few in the town on Friday:

But how do the businesses feel about this?

Karen Moore, the owner of Penny Farthing, believes businesses should have been consulted:

Meanwhile, Andrew Roche from Watts up Performance says the bridge provides safe passage for bike users:

In response, the Department of Infrastructure says any closure of Ramsey Swing Bridge will cause inconvenience and it's apologising to residents, businesses and visitors affected by these essential works.

"The repairs have been identified by structural engineers as necessary to maintain and preserve the Victorian-era structure for its continued day-to-day use.

"The work involves replacing deteriorated wooden joists and sections of decking beneath the road surface, alongside the renewal of ageing electrical components within the bridge.

"While there is never an ideal time to undertake work of this nature, carrying it out during the summer months allows longer daylight hours and generally more favourable weather conditions.

"This helps minimise the duration of the project and reduces costs to the taxpayer when compared with undertaking the same work during the winter.

"The works are expected to take two to three weeks to complete, although a closure order of up to one month is being sought to allow for any unforeseen delays, including poor weather.

"During the closure, all traffic, including pedestrians, will be diverted via the nearby stone bridge.

"The Department will monitor the diversion route and would encourage anyone with specific safety concerns to report them so they can be assessed.

"We appreciate the patience and understanding of the Ramsey community while these essential repairs are carried out to safeguard an important part of the town's infrastructure."