Manx Mencap appeals plans to create new respite facility

One of the oldest charities on the Isle of Man says it will appeal plans to demolish a respite care facility for adults with learning disabilities in Douglas.

Manx Mencap says it’s concerned that an opportunity to address the lack of long term supported accommodation is being missed.

The Department of Health and Social Care wants to re-build a new respite facility on the Radcliffe Villas and Greenfield Horticultural Centre sites near Noble’s Park.

Radcliffe Villas was built in 1984 with funding provided by Manx Mencap – three additional extensions have been built over time supported by the charity.

However the charity says there is a ‘serious gap in provision’ for adults who could live independent lives in supported accommodation and it wants to see the existing site ‘re-purposed’ to enable both.

Georgie Revill is a director:

Manx Mencap says despite funding the original Radcliffe Villas it was not consulted in the development of the plans.

In response, the Department of Health and Social Care says:

"The Department of Health and Social Care is disappointed that this appeal has been lodged, especially as it risks delaying the redevelopment of essential facilities to support the needs of vulnerable service users.

"The current building does not meet regulatory requirements and the condition and layout mean that it does not meet the needs of vulnerable service users. The proposed development would see a new facility put in place, which is modern and suited to service user needs.

"The Department awaits the outcome of the appeal which we hope is conducted expeditiously in the interests of the people who will benefit from this proposed new facility."