The DoI Minister says the final decision on what roads become 20mph roads will only be made after consultations in all areas affected.
Douglas and Onchan are first to be consulted on as set out in the DoI’s new implementation plan.
Dr Michelle Haywood brought the plan to Tynwald today as she admitted mistakes made by the department as it looked to deliver on a direction from Tynwald made during the last administration.
In her address, Dr Haywood stressed: “This is not a blanket all-island 20 mile an hour scheme. It is a residential areas 20 mile an hour approach in line with the wishes of Tynwald.”
She emphasised that no changes have taken legal effect, with final decisions pending further local engagement.
Dr Haywood added: “This is not a done deal. We are committed to reviewing further detailed consultation with each town and parish before any changes are made, as set out in our implementation plan.
“Let me stress again, no changes have taken legal effect.”
Consultation
The phased consultation will see Douglas and Onchan consulted for six weeks from this week, with signs installed in summer 2025. Northern areas will follow in autumn 2025, the central corridor (Peel, Tynwald) in spring 2026, and southern areas in summer 2026.
Dr Haywood acknowledged public concerns, stating: “Following just the statutory process was insufficient for the changes that are on the table. We’ve listened to the feedback and are now embarking on consultations that will take us the rest of the year.”
The plan includes updated school zone signage and prioritises roads based on housing density, proximity to schools, and road characteristics.
Over 700 public responses were received during initial consultations, ranging from strong support to opposition.
Dr Haywood urged Tynwald to back the motion, saying: “Please do not let us lose momentum on delivering this commitment… to deliver safer streets for our communities.”
Tynwald is debating the plan now with at least one amendment set to be tabled.
Listen to Dr Haywood’s opening speech here.
5 Comments