A policy needs to be drawn up to outline an approach to derelict buildings legislation, agreed the local authority in Port Erin.

Last week, commissioner Barbara Guy told members the issue of the new legislation was raised at a meeting of the village’s traders.

She was asked to find out more information about the legislation, which empowers local authorities to take action over derelict or unsightly properties in their area and came into force last December.

Authorities can issue an improvement notice and if action is not taken within a reasonable time frame, can issue a fixed penalty notice with a fine of £50 a day. Proceeds from the fine go to the authority.

Commissioners’ clerk Jason Roberts explained the matter is handled by two government departments. The Department of Infrastructure drew up the legislation but it is enforced by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

Phil Crellin said: ’Jason has got to write a policy. We need three people to have a meeting - they need to talk through it and recommend this and this and this because of this.

’We must be seen to apply the legislation even-handedly if it goes to court.’

Mr Roberts said the local authority does not sit in court. ’It has to be DEFA,’ he said.

Adrian Tinkler said: ’The policy has to be 100 per cent consistent.

’Surely the policy has to come from the department.

’We need three people on a sub-committee. We must identify points.’

The introduction of the legislation was driven by Rushen MHKs at the time, Phil Gawne, Laurence Skelly and Juan Watterson.

’In 2009 I wrote the paper, in 2015 Phil moved the legislation,’ said Mr Watterson. He added the issue is particularly acute in the parish. ’Port Erin prom has changed a lot, there are gaps and eye sores.

’It is high profile and the problem needs to be addressed or if there’s a house next door that’s dilapidated and it’s bringing down the whole street that’s just as important.’