Changes proposed for TT landmark
A famous part of the Isle of Man TT course could undergo a major makeover in the next four years.
The Island’s Department of Transport has confirmed proposals for a £4 million scheme which would see Quarterbridge extensively changed.
The planned work would see the landmark Quarterbridge pub, a popular venue for TT fans, disappear and the well-known right-hand bend riders negotiate before blasting down to Braddan Bridge re-profiled.
However, the DoT insists the proposed work will not alter the racing line for TT competitors.
A statement from the department said Quarterbridge is a strategic junction serving traffic to and from Douglas town centre from the south and west, as well as being a route for traffic travelling to the National Sports Centre, outer Douglas and Onchan.
The statement added:
‘The present mini roundabout layout was constructed in 1986, but it is no longer able to accommodate the current volumes of traffic particularly during peak hours when there is congestion and delays on most approaches.’
‘The Quarterbridge junction has the highest frequency of recorded accidents on the Island. In the past 5 years, from 2003 to 2007, there have been 20 accidents at the junction, mainly slight and damage only.’
The DoT proposes to replace the two mini roundabouts with a single large oval-shaped, conventional roundabout.
The planned layout has been constrained to an extent because of the position of a number of ‘A’ grade trees on Quarterbridge Road, adjacent to the riverbank. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry advised that these trees were important and should be retained, the statement said.
It added:
‘Whilst this has pushed the roundabout slightly to the south, at least it will retain the existing racing line for TT competitors.’
‘However, it will necessitate the demolition of the Quarterbridge pub, realignment of the approach roads and new road bridge over the river.’
The southerly section of the roundabout will be used during TT road closures to permit traffic to drive between the TT Access Road and Peel Road to and from Douglas town centre.
The department said this will relieve the pressure on the existing bypass arrangement through Groves Road.
If permission is granted by Tynwald, the Isle of Man’s parliament, and the Treasury, work will begin in 2010 and be complete by 2012.
Drawings of the plans go on show at the Sea Terminal in Douglas from 3pm to 7pm on Thursday and from 10am until midday on Saturday.
DoT officers will be available to answer questions.
The department said comments from the public on the proposed new roundabout will be welcomed and fully assessed by prior to the submission for planning approval.
For more information about the Department of Transport visit the website.
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