£70 million needed to address private housing problems

Survey shows elderly more likely to live in poor accommodation

Up to £70 million is needed to improve the standard of homes in the private sectors, thousands of which are unfit and in need of repair.

It's according to a survey, which found the elderly and those on low incomes are more likely to live in poor quality accommodation.  

The report on the condition of private homes also shows high rates of fuel poverty in the rental market, which has grown in the last decade.

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas says these issues have to be tackled as part of a greater government plan for housing in both sectors:

Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot says funding could be made available to help address the problems highlighted in the report: