'National Housing Plan' focus for new Housing and Communities Minister

Rob Callister MHK lays out his priorities for the role

The new Housing and Communities minister says developing a 'National Housing Plan' will be his first priority.

It was announced Onchan MHK Rob Callister would take on the newly-created position last week. 

Currently housing policy and delivery span all eight government departments, and the system is also affected by factors such as mortgage rates, building costs and changing housing needs.

Alongside development of the plan, proposals will be developed for how it can be delivered through co-ordination and collaboration across all Government departments.

It's hoped the National Housing Plan will set out evidence-led, prioritised actions and will include the existing Tynwald-approved commitment to build, provide or facilitate up to 1,000 affordable homes over ten years from April 2025.

The plan will inform decisions on funding, site availability and construction capacity, and ensure housing developments help create thriving communities across the Island.

Mr Callister hopes to be able to bring it to Tynwald as soon as possible.

He has been telling Manx Radio exactly what his role will focus on: