Douglas Council has launched a search for development sites and partners to deliver new social housing.
The initiative forms the next phase of the Council’s long-term plan to increase its public housing stock, following recent completions on Peel Road and Snaefell Road.
The Council is inviting expressions of interest from landowners and developers for freehold sites capable of accommodating a minimum of ten apartments, with a strong preference for land that already has planning consent.
Council Leader Devon Watson stated: “Everyone deserves a safe, decent place to call home – it’s a basic human right. We’re committed to doing everything we can to make it a reality for people across our city.”
He added: “We have a financially sustainable development model that lets us use the assets we already have to open up more housing options, both in the public and private sector.”
Reinvestment
The project is aligned with the planned sale of several vacant Council-owned properties, which will free capital for direct reinvestment.
Councillor Peter Washington, Chair of the Housing and Property Committee, said: “It’s our intention to create a new social housing development to build upon the success of recent developments, ensuring the Council continues to increase its Public Sector Housing Stock.
“These projects set a clear benchmark for quality, environmental performance and accessibility and the Council intends to maintain this standard for all future housing schemes.”
Key objectives include delivering energy-efficient, accessible homes using low-carbon methods.
The deadline for submissions is 5pm on December 31 via the Council’s procurement portal.