£1.8m investment for Ramsey pier in the Isle of Man

The work will ensure the pier remains stable and stop further deterioration

A seaside pier in the Isle of Man is to be made safe, after members of Tynwald agreed to invest £1.8m in the project.

Queen's Pier in Ramsey, which first opened in 1886, has fallen into disrepair.

Members discussed various options, including a full refurbishment which would have cost £9.15m.

But they agreed an option suggested by Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne, to keep the pier stable and prevent it deteriorating further.

Mr Gawne said: "I am a strong supporter of the refurbishment agreement.

"Had it not been for the change in government financial position I would have been here recommending the £9.15m full refurbishment.

"Clearly we can't afford the full refurbishment now. The alternative option offers a solution which makes the pier safe and holds out the prospect of future refurbishment.

"Doing nothing is no longer an option."