'Masterplan' for new-look park unveiled

4 hours ago

Josh CannIsle of Man

The proposed updates include an outdoor gym, padel courts, and wildlife areas

Douglas City Council A rendered map image of Nobles Park. It is scattered with labelles, numbering the different areas set of re-developments — The proposed updates include an outdoor gym, padel courts, and wildlife areas

Plans for a major overhaul of a city park have been unveiled by a council, along with images of how it might look.

Proposals for Noble's Park in Douglas include a new entrance plaza for the TT Grandstand, a skatepark and a wildlife park.

The draft 'masterplan', which has been published for public consultation, sets out a 'long-term vision' for improving the 45-acre space.

Developed in response to feedback from the local community, the plans also feature a community garden, outdoor fitness areas, table tennis facilities, and new spaces aimed at boosting biodiversity and supporting wildlife.

The plans are also aimed at adressing the 'limited' facilities for teenagers

Douglas City Council A computer-generated image of new table tennis tables, climbing boulders, courts and pump tracks. — The plans are also aimed at adressing the 'limited' facilities for teenagers

What do Douglas residents want?

The plans have been developed following a public questionnaire completed by 355 people:

• 67% of respondents would like more seating

• 61% of respondents would like improved play facilities

• 42% of respondents would like improved footpaths

• 40% of respondents would like an improved community/visitor facilities

• 63% of respondents don't use the park's existing sports facilities

• 39% of respondents would like a new skate park

• 83% of residents support tree planting and wildflower meadows

Plans for a new pond 'would improve drainage issues at the bottom of the park'

Douglas City Council A computer-generated image shows a pond with walking platforms crossing it. Trees surround it, and on the edge is a dark wooden seating area. — Plans for a new pond 'would improve drainage issues at the bottom of the park'

What are the highlights?

Among the most eye-catching proposals is the creation of a new civic plaza outside the TT Grandstand. The area would feature large trees, seating and artwork celebrating the history and cultural significance of the TT, while providing a year-round destination for residents and visitors.

The draft plans also include a new skatepark, padel courts, a pump track, a multi-use games area, a callisthenics zone and climbing sculptures designed for informal recreation.

Environmental improvements are a significant part of the proposals. These include wildflower meadows, new tree planting, a wildlife garden on top of the existing reservoir and a pond with a viewing deck.

Why is a new park needed?

The 'masterplan' identified several other challenges currently facing the park, including ageing sports facilities, limited provision for teenagers, accessibility issues, and conflicts between vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians

The council also said the pond would also help address existing drainage issues in lower parts of the park.

What does the timescale look like?

The proposals would be delivered over a number of years and remain subject to public feedback before any final decisions are made.

Douglas City Council has encouraged residents, community groups and park users to review the plans and take part in the consultation, which closes at midday on 6 July.

The council said: "Your feedback is vital in helping to shape the final plan and ensure that the future of Noble's Park reflects the needs and aspirations of the community."

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