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Courthouse deal 'good news' for ratepayers says Ramsey Commissioners chairman

THOR has best interests of town at heart

The chairman of Ramsey Commissioners says an agreement over the future of the town's historic courthouse will have a 'positive impact' on ratepayers.

Not-for-profit group the Heart of Ramsey Limited (THOR) has agreed a contract with the local authority to develop the site as a community hub.

Its preliminary designs for the courthouse include the creation of additional audience space, an eating area, office storage and full refurbishment of the building.

Andy Cowie says as a collection of local figures, the group has the best interests of the town at heart, and has described the plans as 'pretty special'.

Around half a million pounds will need to be raised for THOR to realise its ambitions for the courthouse, according to chair of the trustees, Ayre and Michael MHK Tim Baker.

The historic building was purchased by the commissioners from the Manx government in 2017 for £80,000.

Mr Cowie explained to Local Democracy Reporter Ewan Gawne the financial impact of the project on the people of Ramsey:

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