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Client: Department of Infrastructure, Isle of Man
Contractor: Island Drainage & Groundwork Ltd, Isle of Man

A significant regeneration project to enhance the heart of Laxey Village was substantially completed ahead of the 2015 TT Festival. The culmination of the work was marked on Saturday 23 May 2015 when a statue honouring those who worked in the Great Laxey Mine was unveiled in the Heritage Garden at Mines Road. 

Monumental improvements

The regeneration scheme involved the upgrading of pavements and improvements to the Rose Garden and Manx Electric Railway Station, along with the creation of a village square outside Whitehouse Close and Whitehouse Building. High quality Kilkenny Blue limestone and granite paving were used to enhance the public realm in sympathy with the Conservation Area. 

A major aim of the project was to improve pedestrian access within the village centre. A key aspect of this was a provision of a new paved link to connect the MER Station and the new square and Rose Garden. This included a combined stepped and ramped access, creating a safer and easier route for pedestrians whilst also opening the area up. 

Collaborative approach

The plans were overseen by the Laxey Regeneration Committee and the finished result reflected the original public consultations. The development of the scheme became a partnership between the Regeneration Committee, Isle of Man Public Transport and the Commissioners. This also helped to ensure the installation of appropriate street furniture and lighting. 

The Commissioners led the review of options for benches in the MER Station and the chosen style was a replica of those previously in place. Public Transport oversaw the restoration of the two timber kiosks, which were returned to the station as part of the project. 

The completion of the project is the culmination of several years of work by the Regeneration Committee, Public Transport, the Commissioners and volunteers from local businesses. Laxey already had much to offer but this major project has revitalised the village centre and created a focus for residents and visitors.” He added: “I would like to thank all those involved in the project. By working together Laxey has a village centre that will continue to attract visitors for years to come.

Steve Rodan SHK, Chairman of the Laxey Regeneration Committee

Materials used

Kilkenny Blue limestone selected paving, setts, kerbs, steps, and copings in a variety of finishes and textures. 

Hardscape were proud to be included with the client team in the hard-landscaping material supply offering invaluable knowledge and experience with material selection for projects throughout the Isle of Man including Douglas working with BCA Landscape; Ramsey, Laxey, Castletown and Port Erin working with Denning Millar Projects Ltd (formerly Dalyrimple Associates).  

The day-to-day Regeneration was led by the Isle of Man’s Department of Infrastructure working with six Local Regeneration Committees. 

Materials used