The public sector housing waiting lists of Braddan and Garff could merge.

Braddan Commissioners, Garff Commissioners - which encompasses Laxey, Lonan and Maughold - and the Department of Infrastructure will contact applicants on their existing housing waiting lists to explain the proposal and the potential benefits.

The combined eastern housing waiting list would operate in a similar way to initiatives already in place in the south and under way in the north of the island. It would provide access to any general needs public sector housing owned by either Braddan Commissioners or the Department of Infrastructure.

Andrew Jessopp of Braddan Commissioners said: ’We are looking forward to working with the other local authorities on the shared list and feel it is a positive step forward for those wishing to live in the east and indeed a benefit to the island.’

Nigel Dobson, chairman of Garff Commissioners, said: ’Garff Commissioners welcome the opportunity to be working with Braddan Commissioners and the department to maximise the opportunity for choice a shared waiting list will provide.’

Onchan Commissioners have decided not to take part in the eastern housing list but will continue to monitor developments and are said to be keen to explore ways of working with Braddan and Garff.

Douglas was not involved in the process.