The people and businesses of Ramsey are to be asked for their ideas to breathe new life into the town as part of the Government's regeneration initiative.
The consultation exercise is being funded by the Government Regeneration Steering Group via the Ramsey Local Regeneration Committee, and will involve local residents, businesses, young people and community groups.
Local committee chairman is Ramsey MHK and Treasury Minister Allan Bell. He commented: ‘I am delighted that money is being provided for starting the consultation and the regeneration of Ramsey. We are really pushing forward with regeneration funding to support the changes that we are already seeing in Ramsey such as new businesses and shops opening up. It is great to see the Ramsey Commissioners and the Chamber of Trade working closely together on the Committee along with my colleague Anne Craine MHK.'
‘Involving the community is an important part of the regeneration of Ramsey as the local committee needs to know what local residents want as well as understanding who visits Ramsey, and if they don't why not. Consultation will begin soon and will involve people throughout the process.'
Ramsey-based design consultancy Dalrymples has been appointed to oversee the consultation, and to gather information to develop a design brief to support the regeneration of the town centre and help it towards improved economic, commercial and environmental viability.
David Millar, who will be leading the project for Dalrymples, said: ‘As a local practice located right in the heart of the town, we are committed to Ramsey and are very happy to be part of the regeneration initiative.
‘I am looking forward to working with the local committee and developing a design brief for the town centre for the improvement of the shopping area, public areas, traffic management and pedestrian access. We will be looking at such aspects as the materials used in the streetscape, public art, lighting, signage and finishes.'
In Ramsey the Regeneration Fund has already offered funding to Fistral Properties for the improvements to the corner of Parliament Street and East Street.
Anyone with views or ideas about the regeneration of Ramsey should send them by email to caroline@chrysalis.co.im or to david.millar@dal.co.im