Braddan Commissioners, Garff Commissioners and the Department of Infrastructure are to pilot a shared housing waiting list in the east of the island.

The scheme will go live immediately.

It is similar to the initiative in place in the south.

The shared housing waiting list will provide public sector tenants with access to a wider geographical area and a greater number of properties.

Andrew Jessopp of Braddan Commissioners said: ’I am delighted that the shared list is going live. This will enhance people’s prospects of being allocated a property that meets their needs. The response from our existing applicants has been very encouraging.’

Nigel Dobson, chairman of Garff Commissioners, which encompasses Laxey, Lonan and Maughold, added: ’Shared waiting lists have been shown to have a positive impact in local communities and this initiative will increase choice for tenants in the east of the island.’

Onchan Commissioners declined to take part. Consequently, any applicants wishing to live in Onchan should apply directly to Onchan Commissioners.

We reported in May that the authorities were considering the move.