New social housing rent collection should bring down arrears says council

Douglas Cllr Devon Watson says it will give tenants more 'flexibility'

Douglas Council says a new way of collecting social housing rent will help bring down rent arrears. 

The new scheme will be introduced in April this year and means tenants will be able to pay over 52 weeks and opt to take a two week break from paying when they choose.

Currently, the council has £228,755.81 in rent arrears and the change will 'significantly' reduce that number.

Chair of the Housing Committee Devon Watson says the change is about giving 'flexibility' to tenants. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to him: