New Laxey Wheel plans to be shared after backlash

Revised plans for a new visitor hub at the Great Laxey Wheel will be discussed with interested parties after a backlash over a previous application.

Manx National Heritage (MNH) withdrew its previous plans for developing the entrance to the Victorian waterwheel.

The local authority had objected and said it would request a redesign, while a local historian criticised the plans.

MNH said it would now hold talks about changes to the design before making a second bid for planning permission.

The original plans would have seen the existing turnstile and kiosk replaced with a “lightweight” building made from insulated panels.

Phase two of conservation works at the wheel are due to be completed in the autumn

MNH said its aim was to “develop enhanced visitor facilities, creating a new visitor arrival point with a retail experience, also providing improved staff welfare facilities”.

It said the decision was taken to revise the plans for an “affordable, low maintenance and contemporary visitor welcome hub” – but this time with feedback taken onboard from interested parties before moving ahead.

The plans, which would be paid for from charitable funds, had been criticised for not being in keeping with the heritage of the 170-year-old attraction, which is the largest working waterwheel of its kind in the world.

An MNH statement read: “The use of similar modern structures as Visitor Welcome centres is commonplace at heritage sites across the UK and further afield.

“Well-travelled visitors are accustomed to, and expect high levels of service, access to information and visitor facilities which include retail opportunities.

“Welcome hubs of this nature have become a vital component in providing access to heritage sites, whilst ensuring a focus on the needs of the modern-day visitor.”

The plans coincide with the ongoing £1.6m refurbishment of the 72ft (22m) diameter wheel, which will conclude in the autumn after repairs to the Laxey Wheel’s T-Rocker and rod duct are completed.

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