The Department of Social Care is seeking Tynwald approval at the July sitting to expend a sum not exceeding ?2,942,000 to carry out a further phase of redevelopment of Clagh Vane Estate. The proposed works will be a mix of 12 two-bedroom apartments and 4 two-bedroom bungalows of similar appearance to the new housing nearing completion on the main Douglas Road which forms the first phase of redevelopment. The proposed development (referred to as “Project 4”) also includes the demolition and clearance of the existing empty properties, the creation of a new access lane and car parking, and the construction of a communal biomass boiler house utilising wood chip fuel, to be supplied from local sources by the Forestry Division of the Department of Environmental, Food and Agriculture. Minister for Department of Social Care Hon Martyn Quayle MHK stated: “This scheme demonstrates my Department’s ongoing commitment to the phased re-development of the Clagh Vane housing estate including modernising its infrastructure, some of which dates back to the 1940’s. The Department and the developer are sensitive to the fact that it can be difficult for residents during the building works and we will continue to work hard to minimise the impact. That said, the finished product, which is now starting to appear elsewhere on Clagh Vane, demonstrates the value of such investment to ensure a high standard of public sector housing in Ballasalla and across the Island.” Previous works at Clagh Vane have consisted of environmental improvements to the spaces around retained housing, the creation of a new improved junction with the Douglas Road, and the development of 16 two bedroom apartments and 1 two bedroomed bungalow. Future projects will include the replacement of the housing in “the Horseshoe” area of the Clagh Vane Estate (some 44 houses and bungalows). The works in Project 4 will commence as soon as possible, subject to Tynwald approval.The first works will consist of the demolition of the existing properties in order to clear the site prior to construction. In addition, the Department will consult with existing residents and others on the re-development of the remaining areas of the Clagh Vane Estate. ENDS