The government would consider selling the Manx Electric Railway depot at Derby Castle as part of its attempts to sell the Summerland site.
A brochure published by Chapman’s is showcasing the long for sale site in a bid to offload it for redevelopment.
Having been demolished almost 20 years ago, the site has sat empty since, disturbed only by parking and an annual memorial service to the 1973 fire.
In the brochure, the site is described as being “suitable for a variety of uses including leisure, commercial, residential, and mixed use, subject to planning”.
MER
It later says that the department (the DoI) “may consider development proposals which involve the purchase and redevelopment of the adjacent MER Depot on the basis that existing or similar facilities will be provided within an enlarged scheme”.
A purchaser will also “be expected to incorporate a memorial garden within the design”.
Don’t Sell
However, while the freehold of the site is being offered for sale, Onchan MHK Julie Edge says this a longterm leasehold would be a better option.
She said this would ensure that “development happens in line with the Island’s needs – not just private interests”.
Ms Edge added: “The site does need development, but we already know what type of regeneration is expected: leisure, residential, hotel, or care facilities that enhance Douglas Bay.
“In fact, government previously worked on public–private partnership models that would give the island a say in shaping any scheme.”
7 Comments