What to do With an Old Phone Box?

Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners is exploring plans to adopt the decommissioned red telephone kiosk at Colby Bridge.

It is available under Manx Telecom’s Adopt a Kiosk scheme.

The proposal would see the iconic red box repurposed as a community asset—potentially as a tourist information point or a mini public library.

Previous examples around the island have seen mini libraries and defibrillators housed in the former phone boxes, while another was gifted to Government House.

Amenities

The authority said: “This represents a low-cost enhancement to parish amenities.”

The initiative relies on public support. Commissioners are calling for volunteers to help maintain, paint, and stock the facility.

“We need your ideas, help to maintain and paint the box, and volunteers to stock the facility and keep it tidy, clean, and purposeful,” it said.

Local groups, including the WI and youth organisations like Brownies, are encouraged to participate. 

“This is an ideal opportunity for community groups to get involved in improving the parish by volunteering,” the Commissioners added.

Those interested can contact Arbory and Rushen Parish Commissioners via email at j.glover@arbrus.gov.im or through their social media page.