Proposed Multi-Storey Car Park Plans Nearing Submission

Construction of a new multi-storey car park in Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man, is contingent upon the approval of its development plans. The Manx Development Corporation (MDC), in partnership with its shareholder the Treasury, intends to submit proposals for this project, located at Parade Street in Douglas, during the first half of 2025. According to the firm, the project’s methodology aligns with the 2014 Tynwald-supported masterplan for lower Douglas and “consolidates the localised parking provision”. Dane Harrop of MDC stated that “extensive consultation” has occurred with parties connected to adjacent sites, and this engagement is set to persist throughout the project’s advancement. He further noted that the Department of Infrastructure and “those running the port” have participated in the process thus far to “ensure that what is being proposed is considered and coordinated”. The designated site is situated between the Millennium Bridge at Douglas Harbour and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company headquarters, and previously functioned as a border control point at the ferry port during the coronavirus pandemic. MDC, established with the mandate to regenerate publicly-owned brownfield sites across the island, is concurrently undertaking the redevelopment of a former nurses’ home and the construction of a new housing development within the island’s capital. Managing director Mr Harrop announced that “following a pause of works to reassess the final scope, the MDC have now re-engaged its design team” to proceed with the new project. He added that it was “envisaged that the provision of this multi-storey car park will be a decisive move to reinvigorate the surrounding area by helping to enable regeneration in the city”. The firm confirmed that the redevelopment plans for the Parade Street car park site do not encompass any physical alterations to the existing Sea Terminal building, but stated they would “consider the needs of the port and its long-term future”. It was further stated that additional details regarding the proposals would be disclosed at “the appropriate time”. Separately, developers involved in another redevelopment scheme on nearby Lord Street are currently awaiting the decision on a formal planning application.