MHK voices concern over potential DoI purchase of Manx Development Corporation apartments

Douglas Central member accuses government of changing housing policy without Tynwald approval

An MHK is alleging government is changing its policy on affordable housing without first seeking Tynwald approval.

Douglas Central member Chris Thomas has voiced concerns over a document added to the planning application for the Manx Development Corporation's Westmoreland Road site just before it was approved by the planning committee in May.

The Department of Infrastructure's submission confirms 42 units within the development will be designated as affordable properties.

It says Douglas City Council has expressed an interest in purchasing the apartments, which could be fully adapted for use by older persons.

If the Council doesn't proceed with the purchase, the document states the Department of Infrastructure could purchase all 42 affordable properties on the site and allocate them for older persons housing.

Mr Thomas says this means there's now a possibility the department will be managing properties in Douglas, something he claims will be "quite frightening" for local authorities.

He's also questioned whether the Council and other interested parties should have been given longer to respond to the DoI's submission, which was only put forward nine days before the planning committee supported the application.

He told Manx Radio's Political Correspondent Phil Gawne this could provide the basis for an appeal against the MDC's planning permission:

Mr Thomas had been due to bring a motion to Tynwald on the MDC development and planning policies, but a change to Tynwald's Standing Orders earlier in the sitting meant the motion was ruled out of order.

Manx Radio contacted the Department of Infrastructure, the Manx Development Corporation and Douglas Council for response.

The DOI unfortunately hasn't been able to provide a statement, but we do still hope to speak with the minister about this matter. 

We've had no response so far from the Manx Development Corporation.

Meanwhile, Douglas Council says: ‘As the Island’s largest local housing provider with a long-term housing strategy, the Council maintains regular and constructive dialogue with the IOM Government and property developers, such as the Manx Development Corporation.

‘We remain fully committed to delivering quality, affordable and efficient homes for those in need and we are always open to exploring potential opportunities in the capital.

‘The local authority, however, has not agreed to purchase any properties in Westmoreland Road.’