Tynwald to Consider £16.3 Million for Three Projects

Plans to allocate £16.3 million for a new respite facility, a residential development, and an upgraded airport drainage system are scheduled for submission to parliament for approval in the upcoming month. The proposed Tynwald resolution requests £6 million from the government’s capital financing reserve to fund the renovation of the Radcliffe Villas respite facility located in Douglas. Additionally, £5 million is being sought for a project aimed at enhancing drainage and flood protection at the island’s airport, alongside £5.3 million designated for a housing initiative in Colby. Infrastructure Minister Michelle Haywood commented that the Colby housing project would “mark a significant step towards meeting the needs of the local community”. The Ballacubbon Project, managed by the department’s housing team, is planned to involve the construction of 20 two-bedroom residences. These will comprise seven houses and four apartments designated for first-time buyers, along with five bungalows and four apartments available for public sector rent. A government spokesperson stated that the three initiatives “represent a significant investment” and align with the government’s roadmap Island Plan and the Economic Strategy. The spokesman further explained that the airfield drainage enhancement project was developed to boost “operational resilience and safety” through the reduction of surface water flooding and the improvement of Runway End Safety Areas, intended to support aircraft “in the event any leave the paved surfaces”. Haywood also noted that the maintenance work is “essential to the facility’s continued safe operation while adhering to regulatory requirements”. A planning application for the demolition of the current Radcliffe Villas adult learning disability respite unit and the subsequent construction of a replacement facility was lodged in June 2022 and received approval in January of the subsequent year. This new facility, planned for construction on land situated behind the existing accommodation built in 1983, will feature 12 bedrooms equipped with ceiling track hoists, fully-equipped disabled bathrooms, and office spaces for personnel. Health Minister Claire Christian stated that the funding being sought is “crucial for ensuring the continued delivery of effective respite services, supporting families and carers in the community”. She further mentioned that the government had previously considered the current space “outdated” and acknowledged that it no longer adequately served the requirements of its residents.