DoI awaits bypass plans

Ballasalla project to become clear

The Department of Infrastructure says bosses are waiting to see firm proposals for a bypass around Ballasalla and accompanying housing development.

A planning application from Dandara is expected before summer.

The idea of a bypass around the village of Ballasalla is nothing new - it's been spoken about on and off for many years.

Support for the concept can be found in the DoI's overarching Area Plan for the South policy document, which was approved by Tynwald five years ago.

Back then, it was envisioned a bypass would reduce congestion, improve journey times between the south and the capital, and improve what's described as the 'overall fabric' of the village.

Talks over how the road would look and be funded are continuing between Dandara and the DoI.

That's along with the plans for an initial build of 135 new homes, rising to around 300 following completion of the final phase of the project.