DfE working to understand pressures facing construction sector

Minister confirms there is 'clear evidence' of a slowdown in the industry

Work is underway to better understand the pressures facing the Island's construction sector.

The enterprise minister says his department is working with builders after a number of businesses identified a slowdown on projects.

In Tynwald, this week, Tim Johnston was asked specifically about work at the Meadows near Janet's Corner, in Castletown, and why work has stopped there.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover raised concerns over roads with ironworks and the estate itself being incomplete and asked for an update on the developer behind the project.

Mr Johnston told the court he wasn't in a position to comment on specific businesses but confirmed contingencies are in place that will see that development continue.

He said there's 'clear evidence' consumer demand is tempered while government's own capital programme is behind forecast.

The minister believes there are a number of factors presenting challenges for the sector: