How Much???

So islanders, prepare to ease off the accelerator as a 20mph speed limit is coming to a street near you.

The DoI has set out its plan to roll out the lower speed limits in residential areas across the island, but it’s been revealed today that the full scheme is expected to cost £400,000 and be completed by the end of 2026.

Port St Mary led the charge in February, becoming the first village to introduce a blanket 20mph zone.

Next up, Douglas and Onchan will be treated as one big residential area, with their speed limits set to drop this summer.

After that, it’s Ramsay, Kirk Michael, and the north in 2025, followed by the central belt, including Laxey and Peel, in early 2026.

Finally, the south – Ballasalla, Castletown, Colby, and Port Erin – will get their turn from summer 2026 onwards.

Infrastructure Minister Dr Michelle Haywood revealed the numbers behind the project in the House of Keys today, saying the initial Port St Mary scheme cost £14,000, while Douglas and Onchan’s rollout will need £130,000.

And yes, people have had thoughts about it.

More than 700 objections and comments have been received so far.

That’s ignoring the more than 3,000 people who signed the petition to get this entire thing axed earlier this year.

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas wasn’t convinced the public had been properly consulted, while Ann Corlett told the Minister to stop faffing and ‘just get on with it.’

Dr Haywood agreed but said she’ll bring the full implementation plan to Tynwald in May.

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