The Environment Minister has apologised to Tynwald members for spending more than ?300,000 on emergency cliff works BEFORE seeking their approval.

Phil Gawne says there has been ongoing erosion at Ballure Cliffs south of Ramsey, for some time, resulting in the loss of around 15 centimetres of land a year.

But last November eight feet dropped away unexpectedly causing problems for nearby properties, the cliff footpath and the Manx Electric Railway line.

To prevent further slippage a major cut off drain has been installed, but it had to be done before the start of the MER season and before the matter could go to Tynwald. It's now due to go before the court later this month.

Director of Forestry, Amenity & Lands Andrew Sidebottom says there is still more work to be done.