A report commissioned by Peel Commissioners has suggested introducing pay and display parking in the town.
The proposal is a recommendation from a new 2025 Parking Study, which found sustained high demand and limited turnover in key town centre car parks, most notably on Douglas Street.
Conducted over July and August, the study involved detailed occupancy surveys of on and off-street parking.
It concludes that the current free parking arrangement is “not effectively turning over vehicles” in the busiest areas.
Charge
The report, presented to Commissioners in August, says: “I propose that Pay and Display parking should be implemented, with a similar structure to the Sea Terminal and Chester Street Car Parks in Douglas. Where the first hour of parking is free of charge, and any hours of parking after such should incur a charge.”
The study identified 1,715 public parking spaces in Peel, but found significant pressure points.
On a typical Saturday, nine out of sixteen surveyed areas along the promenade and outskirts had average occupancy rates greater than 75%, with many nearing saturation during summer.
Other short-term recommendations include extending evening parking restrictions on Atholl Place and Christian Street to support the night-time economy, relocating loading bays, and improving road markings for bus stops on Shore Road.
Longer-term infrastructure suggestions include expanding the West Quay Car Park by relocating stored fishing equipment and creating a designated campervan area at Marine Parade.
The report also floats the idea of a one-way system along East Quay and the Promenade to improve traffic flow.
The study’s author notes the proposals aim “to improve the overall traffic in the town and enhance the availability of spaces/facilities for residents, visitors, and businesses”.