Commissioners Back Square Closure Plan

Castletown Commissioners have voted to trial a closure of the town’s Market Square to allow for a more continental approach during the summer months.

The original proposal from commissioner Beth Cannan was amended and means the square will now close for four months instead of six months.

By backing this, the commissioners have agreed to suspend parking in Market Square between 5pm on Friday April 29 and the end of the school summer holidays on Tuesday September 6.

The square had, in previous years, been half closed to allow for a range of markets and other activities to be held through the summer months. This trial period will see the Market Square closed completely, with Blue badge parking still being available nearby.

When the closure was proposed, Mrs Cannan said: ‘I believe that this will allow different activities to happen in the square and for the businesses that lead directly onto the Market Square to be able to utilise the frontage of their premises to simulate a continental vibe such as has been enjoyed by the existing café pavement café in recent years.’

Mrs Cannan has now told Gef that she was happy the board had unanimously backed her amended motion and that she supported that amendment from commissioner Jimmy Cubbon to bring the closure down from six months to four.

She said: ‘I know there are some events which are being planned for the town along with regular events such as the monthly markets and Castletown Festival, I see it very much as a community area as it has been over the last couple of years with actives on the grass area for people to enjoy. 

‘I think some of the traders are concerned that it will affect their businesses but I hope with increased footfall to the town this will help local businesses.’

However, some business owners feel they haven’t been listened to and worry the removal of the convenient parking spaces will deter people from visiting, thereby affecting their trade.

As well as proposing his amendment, Mr Cubbon suggested that the Commissioners make arrangements to ensure people know where there is parking in the town and to promote Castletown’s businesses while the trial is ongoing.

Betty

The images on this piece comes from Betty Laurincova, you can see more of her designs here.