Douglas Council want to see 'zero rated' property policies continued under new ministers 

Leader Devon Watson says if postponed it could cost ratepayers 'thousands of pounds'

The Leader of Douglas Council hopes that progress can continue in the current government administration despite two ministerial changes.

Devon Watson says the local authority will carry on lobbying for its 'zero rated' policy to be introduced otherwise local authorities risk losing 'thousands of pounds'. 

He confirmed that at meetings with the outgoing ministers last Friday (16 January), talks about new social housing developments were 'hopeful and helpful'.

Councillor Watson says their other priority is for the housing crisis to be solved and hopes this can be achieved by working with the new ministers. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him: