DOI has been 'delaying' social housing funding says Ramsey Commissioners

Commissioner Juan McGuinness believes there's a 'disconnect' between it and local authorities

Ramsey Commissioners says the Department of Infrastructure has been 'systematically delaying' funding for social housing projects and strategies in the town. 

At its meeting last night, the local authority debated the lack of support from the DoI for its schemes - including one site which could now cost an additional £2 million because of the stalling. 

Last November, it was revealed in Tynwald that no new public sector houses had been built in the three years of the current administration, and it was only 'replacement programmes' which were being carried out. 

It was also confirmed that Close Woirrey is currently being demolished to make way for new housing but there are between 90 and 100 people on its waiting list.

Commissioner Juan McGuinness says there's a 'disconnect' as to why the department has requested a housing strategy from the 21 local authorities, instead of using its own to lead the way. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him:

The Department of Infrastructure has been contacted for comment.