Pleasure park priority list of upgrades revealed

Emma DraperLocal Democracy Reporting Service
News imageOnchan Commissioners A wide shot of the Onchan Park lake. There are several small boats in the water. The water is surrounded by multi-coloured railing.Onchan Commissioners
Commissioners said the current infrastructure at the park was ageing

Improved access, footpath resurfacing and enhanced seasonal services have been among the priorities for a pleasure park in the east of the Isle of Man, a new report has said.

The local authority said Onchan Park's infrastructure was ageing and some of the play equipment needed investment.

Onchan Commissioners agreed to carry out the review after the local authority elections in April saw four new members join the board.

The report also said building a path around the perimeter of the park to allow members of the public to walk and cycle in a safe environment should be considered.

Accessibility could be improved by removing steps and unsuitable surfaces as well as upgrading signage, the document said.

Smaller projects

The report also identified a number of changes had taken place since the park was discussed by the previous board, including two tenants leaving, and the opening of a new clubhouse for the flat green bowling club and regular events.

If an application to build an indoor padel tennis facility is improved, the report said, it might be based next to the mini gold course, which could be reduced in size.

The document also said that the previous board met with the tenants and club representatives to gather information and hired an architect to produce a feasibility report, including "outline design proposals" and costings.

However, no plans or resolutions were brought forward by the board after the consultation was completed, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

There were also concerns in the report about a lack of parking causing issues for the residents on the surrounding roads as well as providing storage areas for bicycles and other types of transport.

As part of the priority list identified, the commissioners agreed that infrastructure such as street and decorative lighting, electrics and drainage should be revamped.

The commissioners agreed that potential costings should be brought forward for smaller projects to be included in the 2027-28 financial year budget.

Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.


More from the BBC