Council eyes 'long-term' fix to Lord Street flats

Housing chair won't pay over the odds for short-term work

The chair of housing at Douglas Council says she's not willing to pay 'substantial amounts' for a short-term fix for Lord Street's 'outdated' flats.

Instead a plan which looks at the 'long-term picture' is being developed, according to Councillor Claire Wells.

She admits many of the properties, first built in the 1930s. currently aren't up to standard, but says others are in a better condition.

It comes following calls from both Central Douglas MHKs for a decision to be made over the buildings' future.

A report was brought before the housing committee this week, which includes a plan to rebuild rather than maintain the flats.

Mrs Wells says the Council wants a solution which may be costly but will outlast any loans the local authority would have to take to pay for a scheme.

Local Democracy Reporter Ewan Gawne asked her for her view on the current state of the properties: