The Policy and Reform Minister has defended a commitment to plan for more than 2,400 houses to be built in the east of the Island.
Chris Thomas says it’s government policy to grow the economically active population, and long-term planning strategies should reflect that.
It comes after his department released data stating that currently, only 1,400 new properties are needed in the east.
The information has been released ahead of the inquiry into the Eastern Area Plan, which will determine how land in the most populated part of the Island will be zoned for development.
It’s been revealed the person chosen to lead the inquiry is Mike Hurley, who’ll introduce himself at a pre-inquiry meeting which will be held on 18 July at the iMuseum in Douglas from 9:30am.
Middle MHK Bill Shimmins has called the commitment to plan for more homes than are currently needed ‘bonkers’.
Immigration advice industry 'unregulated wild west'
Teenager appears in court accused of assaulting a woman
No teacher lump sums for retirement on health grounds, says department
Ending bring-banks for paper will save environment and money, says minister
Teenager remanded over burglary charge
Peel Castle jetty repairs waiting for cash, says DOI
Steam Packet 'will have its say' on Mersey tidal barrage scheme
