Onchan Residents Voice Election Concerns: Traffic, Tourism, and Economy Top Priorities

Residents and business owners in Onchan have identified traffic, tourism, and the economy as their primary concerns leading up to the 2026 House of Keys election. Onchan, the second most populous constituency on the Isle of Man, faces unique challenges as articulated by its community members.

Sally Hellwich, who has owned and operated a family travel business in Onchan for three decades, expressed disappointment that tourism has not been a central theme for election candidates. "I truly believe that tourism underpins the Isle of Man. And if we don't have tourists, we're not generating income for the economy," she stated, emphasizing its foundational role in the island's financial well-being. Hellwich also highlighted housing accessibility as a significant concern for younger generations, noting the increasing difficulty of entering the property market.

Traffic safety is another pressing issue for Onchan residents. Lara, a mother of children who walk to school, voiced her worries about speeding vehicles on the village's main roads. She supports the expansion of 20mph zones, a measure that began implementation across the island in 2025, following a 2020 Tynwald vote to reduce speeds in urban areas. While the initiative aims to improve safety, particularly near schools and residential zones, some residents have expressed concerns about potential congestion as the zones expand. Lara contrasted the island's approach with cities like Belfast, where speed bumps are common near schools, suggesting a need for more robust traffic calming measures in Onchan.

For local business owners Dinko Matevski and Liliya Slavova, the escalating cost of living presents the most significant challenge. The couple, originally from Bulgaria, have lived on the island for over 14 years and have managed a cafe in Onchan's Village Walk for the past three years. Matevski described the rising stock prices as "crazy," noting the daily struggle with fluctuating supplier costs. Slavova added that the economic pressures impact their ability to hire staff, stating, "We want to have staff, but we cannot afford it." She also observed a shift in customer behavior, with patrons cutting back on their orders due to financial strain, concluding, "They're struggling."

The Isle of Man House of Keys election is scheduled for September 24, with polling stations open from 08:00 to 20:00 BST.