Onchan says no to rent rises

Burden on tenants says Board

Onchan Commissioners have recommended that tenants in local government housing shouldn't face a rent rise.

The Department of Infrastructure has again written to local authorities across the Island, asking for feedback on potential changes.

Commissioners in Onchan affirmed their position at a meeting last night (17 September).

Rents, according to the board, have 'increased dramatically' and above inflation in the last five years - placing a 'burden on tenants'.

In a letter to the DoI, the Board also points to the gulf between rent increases and average wage increases.

Onchan Commissioners join Castletown Commissioners in recommending a 0% increase in local authority housing rents.

An update on the DOI's rent setting process isn't expect until later this year.