New builds are best, say local authority 

New build properties may be the best option for local authority housing in the future as they are better for the environment.

That’s the view of Douglas Council which says it is less sustainable - both financially and environmentally - to refurbish older housing stock.

The £12.6 million Peel Road Apartments project - which is replacing the Lord Street flats - is due to be completed next month.

So do new projects like this mark the end of the road for older properties in the council’s housing stock and are they at risk of being demolished and replaced?

Councillors Janet Thommeny, the council’s lead member for housing, and environmental lead Falk Horning say it’s something that has to be considered.