Port Erin Commissioners have spoken of their disappointment at hold-ups, which have prevented the redevelopment of three local government properties in the village.

The homes on St Mary's Road have been empty since 2006.

A scheme to fully refurbish the properties was drawn-up but, after comparing costs, it was agreed a new-build scheme was the best option.

However, in April 2007, the Treasury advised an original tender figure of around ?161,000 per unit, should be revised.

The Commissioners have since submitted the results of the re-tendering, but are yet to hear back.

Kate Skinner reports (audio file attached):

According to a statement from the commissioners, advice to rebuild the homes was issued by their consultants, DLGE and the Treasury, after a cost comparison.

And in April 2007, it was estimated the construction of three terraced properties would cost nearly ?500,000 in total.

When it was re-tendered in October, the unit cost had increased and the commissioners are now awaiting a response from Treasury.

The commissioners say they are extremely frustrated at the position they are in, particularly at having three properties lying empty.

Picture: Port Erin, courtesy of manxscenes.com