Ballaugh Commissioners says small authorities 'disregarded' over NCAS 

Chair Steven Curphey claims there's been 'limited' communication with DoI

The chair of Ballaugh Commissioners says the announcement that the Northern Civic Amenity Site is temporarily closing has ‘caused concern’.

Steven Curphey claims there has been ‘limited’ communication between the Department of Infrastructure and the other local authorities which use the NCAS.

In a statement Mr Curphey says the board has been sent one letter regarding the future of NCAS and there has been ‘no further’ correspondence or discussions.

He adds that, as a smaller local authority, Ballaugh Commissioners’ expectation was to be included in all discussions regarding the future management of the site.

But he claims these have ‘primarily occurred’ between Ramsey Commissioners and the DoI.

Mr Curphey says the board hasn’t received information about who the contractor is or the terms of the contract.

Ramsey Commissioners’ announcement this week confirmed that there would be a temporary closure from the 23 March.

This is to allow ‘essential works’ to be carried out before the site is handed over to the contractor.

This is anticipated to be on 1 April.

The northern authority has also thanked the staff and their ‘dedication, professionalism, and commitment’ to keep the facility running efficiently and safely.

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Mr Curphey also believes that the DoI, and larger local authorities, are ‘disregarding’ smaller local authorities as well as the Island's tax and ratepayers.

He added that despite the smaller contributions from Ballaugh Commissioners its residents have paid into the NCAS and therefore deserve equal participation in discussions.

However he says if any discussions arise with the DoI concerning the future of NCAS he would oppose any proposals that may negatively affect ratepayers unless equitable representation is ensured.

Mr Curphey adds that he has ‘consistently advocated’ for the continued management of the NCAS by local authorities but says his confidence in DoI and Ramsey Commissioners regarding this matter has ‘diminished’.