Castletown MHK defends record on encouraging development

Moorhouse to meet commissioners tonight

An MHK has sought to defend his record after Castletown Commissioners described his efforts to support the board on developing new housing as 'disappointing'.

Jason Moorhouse says despite being advised to steer clear of planning issues, he's played an 'active role' to encourage construction of homes, working with developers, commissioners and local residents.

Chairman of the commissioners Richard McAleer had called on the Arbory Castletown and Malew MHKs to do more at national level to ensure the town's housing need is met.

It's after the authority complained that planners and the Cabinet Office weren't clear on which policies applied to the ancient capital, with both the Castletown Housing Land Review, and Southern Area Plan in play.

In a post on social media, Mr Moorhouse says he's looking forward to meeting board members tonight, and working together to help the town become 'an even better place to shop, live, work, eat and play'.

The MHK goes on to suggest despite the public message, the commissioners have not yet contacted the government over their grievances.