The Middle River civic amenity site in Pulrose will remain closed for the weekend, although there are hopes it will re-open early next week.

The news was confirmed by the Department of Local Government and the Environment this afternoon, as the legal wrangle over who runs the site continues.

Douglas Corporation has been signed up with effect from Monday, but Tel’s Limited insists it still has a valid contract.

Tel's vowed to remain open for business after yesterday's expiry of six months notice to quit, and did so this morning, before being told to close.

The company says it has complied with the terms of its contract and is awaiting instructions as to when it can re-open.

Onchan MHK David Quirk (pictured) says it’s an unsatisfactory situation: