'Chance to refocus Douglas housing strategy'

Managing and adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic is giving Douglas Borough Council the chance to refocus its housing strategy.

That's according to the authority's housing committee chairman, Claire Wells, who says housing officers have been building 'proactive relationships' with tenants as well as strengthening connections with third-party agencies such as Housing Matters and Age Concern Isle of Man.

Councillor Wells also believes the council's relationship with the Department of Infrastructure is 'maturing'.

She added the council has had plans approved to create 48 two-bedroom apartments in Willaston, and whilst it will be some time before they're completed, once finished they will free up some of their larger properties for families on the housing transfer and waiting list.