Statement of Case Duke Street

Statement to support the Planning Application for the proposed regeneration works at Duke Street, Douglas

Introduction

The section of Duke Street for which this application applies is shown outlined in Red on the Planning Drawing Ref HW/3574. This forms the next phase of the Douglas Town Centre Regeneration Works. This area has been identified as being within the Conservation Area so planning approval is required. It is proposed that the materials used and its appearance will be the same as the completed works in Strand Street, Regent Street and Castle Street.

Background

The Douglas Town Centre Regeneration Works have been completed from in large sections of the main shopping street. Currently works are under construction in Castle Street and Marina Road. The works have been carried out to a high standard and they have revitalised the town centre whilst retaining its distinct and unique identity. It has encouraged investment and confidence, increased public use, and has re-established a sense of civic pride. Duke Street (from Victoria Street to Lord Street) is the next phase of the project.

Current layout

Currently Duke Street still has the old pink/red concrete paviors which were laid back in the 1970s. These were used throughout the main shopping streets before the Regeneration Scheme replaced it with granite slabs and setts. When compared with the new granite surfaces in Strand Street and Castle Street, these area looks tired and dated, and it continues to deteriorate.

Proposals

The same pallete of natural granite materials which have been laid in the regeneration of Strand Street, Regent Street and Castle Street will be used in Duke Street. The works will also include full reconstruction of the street and the replacement and upgrading of the public utility services, improved street lighting and street furniture, and improved highway drainage.

Out of Scope The proposals do not include the reconstruction or reconfiguration of the existing pedestrian crossings at Victoria Street or Lord Street. The crossing at Victoria Street will form part of a future planning application for the regeneration of Victoria Street. The crossing at Lord Street will form part of a separate planning application for the regeneration of Market Hill.

Signed

Jim Davidson, Project Coordinator Date: 10/4/18