MNH to Showcase Peggy Plans

Manx National Heritage is hosting open days next week to showcase proposals for the transformational redevelopment of the Nautical Museum in Castletown.

On display will be concept designs for the development of the existing site to create an accessible, all-weather heritage visitor attraction.

There will also be a digital 3D model walk-through of the Nautical Museum buildings, allowing visitors to experience a virtual tour of the design which incorporates extensive conservation works to bring the historic buildings back into a state of good repair, as well as re-purposing currently unused outbuildings.

The design will be on display at the Castletown Civic Centre on Tuesday July 11 from 10am to 7pm and Wednesday July 12 from 10am to 5pm, where images of the proposed designs will be on display and representatives of MNH and the design team will be on hand to discuss the regeneration project.

Connie Lovel, executive director of MNH, said: ‘The regeneration of the Nautical Museum into an all-weather family friendly and accessible heritage visitor attraction is a transformative project which we believe will create an engaging and truly memorable experience for all visitors, from near and far.

‘Both the stories told at the Nautical Museum and surrounding the Peggy are of great international significance and this exciting development will further contribute to the already rich cultural life of Castletown and the Isle of Man.

‘It will also create a landmark venue to be proud of, housing a world-class visitor attraction with a broad appeal. We look forward to welcoming as many people as possible to the Civic Centre next week to view the proposed designs and to discuss the potential positive impact of this project.’

Ranald Caldwell, chairman of Visit Isle of Man, added: ‘The island needs new developments of this nature to enable us to compete on an international level, to attract new audiences and encourage repeat visits. Other nations are investing in their visitor attractions and heritage in particular, which is a vital part of our visitor experience here on the Isle of Man.’