#DouglasLinkspan - Work is to be carried out on a major refurbishment of the Manx government-owned linkspan in Douglas Harbour, reports IOM Today.

The Department of Infrastructure says that the large hydraulic cylinders that operate the structure have been in place for almost 16 years and are nearing the end of their operational life.

Subject to favourable weather and tidal conditions, a new cylinder will be fitted before the end of January.

The unit that is removed will then be reconditioned by the manufacturers and reinstalled in place of the second original cylinder later this year. The initial phase of the scheme is expected to take up to four days.

While this work takes place the Ben my Chree will use the Isle of Man Steam Packet linkspan. For more details click here.

Afloat adds that the ropax ferry serves the island's main route to the Port of Heysham. An obstruction at the entrance to the Lancashire port was cleared last week.