Douglas Council has announced it’s to change the way it allocates its homes to people.

The decision used to rest with just one housing officer – who didn’t need to include councillors in their deliberations.

But after last week’s meeting, the system has now changed to include at least one member of the housing committee.

Council leader David Christian (pictured) says this should increase efficiency and fairness when houses are allocated.

Jason Roberts reports (audio file attached):

Mr Christian said having one committee meeting per month to give council houses to people was outdated and causing delays.

He proposed the housing officer involved in cases should be able to make decisions after consulting a member of the committee, rather than waiting for the monthly meeting.

That suggestion was successfully voted through by councillors.