Manx Utilities gives more detail on sewage works delays

Issues hampering efforts to stop raw sewage discharge into bays

Manx Utilities has published a more detailed update on issues affecting the development of sewage treatment works at Laxey and Peel.

The works, which aims to stop the discharge of raw sewage into the sea, have been delayed.

In both cases, the authority says it's due to difficulties getting specialist equipment and contractors from the UK and delays during land acquisition. 

The new completion date for the Peel works is the end of 2026, a year later than hoped, but Manx Utilities says it should be able to install screening equipment earlier in that year to 'remove solid material' from the discharge ahead of the summer bathing season.

That's dependent on receipt of planning by June this year, there being no appeal by interested parties and no worsening of UK supplier resourcing challenges.

For Garff, the authority is still looking at the Axnfell site with pump stations at the Cairn, Glen Garwick and three other 'intermediate' pump stations.

It says it's looking at getting some parts of the works done early, with a target for completing the full project by the end of 2026.

It admits, however, it can't commit to a firm date until a contractor has been appointed.

In both cases, Manx Utilities says it's arranging a meeting with the area's commissioners to provide a more detailed update.