Watterson: 'Economy can't house growth it's seeking to achieve'

MHK says there's not enough emphasis on tackling housing crisis

There's not enough emphasis on tackling the Isle of Man’s housing crisis in this year’s Budget.

That’s according to one Rushen MHK who says the Housing and Communities Board has made ‘little tangible progress’ in the last two and a half years.

It’s been allocated £1 million to continue its work in ensuring housing is accessible, secure and affordable.

Treasury has transferred money between a number of internal government reserves; the housing board has received the least amount of money from all transfers.

You can find out more HERE.

Juan Watterson told Tynwald today that he’s also ‘far from convinced’ that taxpayers’ money should be used to support ‘luxury flats’ on Port Erin Promenade.

He questioned if it’s a good use of ‘limited resources’ to support the redevelopment of the Ocean Castle Hotel which has sought financial backing from the Island Infrastructure Scheme.

The development is required to contain 9.5 ‘affordable housing units’ however Manx Radio revealed in December that the developer is trying to reach an agreement with government and offer a ‘commuted sum’ instead.

You can find out more HERE.

Mr Watterson says at the moment the Manx economy can’t house the growth it is seeking to achieve:

Tynwald will vote on the Budget later today.

Find out more about this year's Budget and how it will affect you by clicking HERE.