‘We Just Thought It Would Be Great To Do Something For The Town’

The team behind Peel’s new beach stage say they simply want to ‘create a nicer atmosphere’ in the town.

Now, after months of delays and drama, their idea is finally set to become reality.

Plans for the stage have officially been approved, with Mannin Music Shop confirming it now has all the necessary permissions to go ahead.

The concept came from Laura and Dave, who live and work in Peel and felt the town sometimes ‘doesn’t get things that other areas of the island do’.

With a background in events, sound and music, they believed a beach stage was something they could deliver.

‘We just thought it would be great to do something for the town,’ Laura told Gef this week.

Despite early support, the project became caught up in well-publicised issues within Peel Commissioners, leading to delays and uncertainty.

Laura said from their perspective, plans were progressing after initial discussions last autumn, but communication later stalled until recent developments pushed things forward.

Since then, organisers say the local authority has been ‘great to work with’, helping get the project over the line.

Originally proposed as a six-event trial, the scheme has now been expanded to 12 events, with some bands set to be paid for their performances.

It’s also confirmed the not-for-profit event does not require a licence, removing a major hurdle.

The stage will be located near the fish bar on the beach, near Spit Corner and the iconic Fish Bar, with organisers hoping it benefits nearby businesses and creates a shared atmosphere across the seafront.

‘There was such an appetite for it,’ Laura added. ‘We’ve hardly had any negative comments… I’d say it’s about 95% positive.’

The stage is expected to be in place ahead of TT and run through to September, with organisers now just hoping the Manx weather plays ball.