IT will probably take several years before work starts on the redevelopment of the former bus station site in Douglas, the House of Keys was told today.
The existing preferred developers, who have a 999-year lease on the property, are not in a position to put forward a detailed proposal and that no timescale was included in the agreement.
Infrastructure Minister Phi, Gawne told the House, “It’s not going to be done in one or two years - it will take several years, but hopefully we will end up with an iconic building on that site.”
Questioned further about the redevelopment, Mr Gawne said that a “considerable amount of effort has gone into to getting where we are now”. But he stressed that any proposal would obviously have to go before to Tynwald for eventual approval in more detail.
He pointed out that the agreement with the developer meant that either side could walk away without penalty. “There is a balance to be considered. What is achievable? What can be delivered. Is this the best deal we can get in terms of developing the site?
“It may well be that Members may think this is not appropriate. If that happens then we will have to go right back to the start again and a new drawing board and perhaps a new developer.”
Mr Gawne accepted that there had been a long delay, but said he was still waiting for views from various government departments which had not all yet been received.
A series of questions from various members concluded what turned into a ‘mini debate’ until Speaker Steve Rodan stepped in.
Mr Cannan: “Has the department consulted with the Attorney General’s department concerning the withdrawal of the 999 year lease? Nothing, but nothing has been achieved in three years with a £2 company that was never ever going to go anywhere.
Mrs Cannell: “If we go back to the drawing board, as the Minister says, does he mean this would be with a new development company or with the existing development company? How tied are we as a nation to this 999 year lease? And if we withdraw what would be the cost implications for the Isle of Man?”
Mr Gawne: “Of course, we have spoken to the Attorney General’s department which is very actively involved and giving us advice. . . If we go back it would be to start again with a new scheme and a new developer. I understand that there would be no cost to the department. We can walk away from this if we wish to.”
Mr Malarkey: “So, can I further seek confirmation that a plot of land formerly owned by Douglas Corporation was sold for 25p sold 25 years ago and run as a car park for 20 years with the revenue shared equally between Douglas Corporation and the government is now to carry on in the future under government supervision and no future income will come to Douglas Corporation?”
Mr Gawne: “Yes, as far as I understand it that is the case.”
