Manx National Heritage (MNH) says it is looking for a ‘responsible’ buyer for Castletown’s Baillie Scott-designed former police station.
Douglas South MHK Sarah Maltby MHK has tabled a motion to this month’s Tynwald sitting seeking the court’s agreement in principle to the proposed sale.
Her motion also acknowledges the building’s statutory protection as a registered property located at the heart of Castletown’s Conservation Area.
It follows confirmation from the trustees of MNH that they intend to seek new owners for the Old Police Station who would be able to redevelop it in a way befitting its historical value.
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Designed by the renowned architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, it is a building of historic and architectural importance.
The heritage conservation charity has indicated its support for a sensitive redevelopment under private ownership – one that preserves the building’s character and heritage while enabling it to play an active, renewed role within the community.
A spokesperson for MNH said: ‘The Old Police Station is an important part of the island’s architectural story, and we are committed to ensuring that its next chapter is one of respect and renewal.
‘By seeking a responsible private owner, we aim to secure a sustainable future for the building, one that preserves its heritage while enabling it to contribute positively to community life once again.’
Police vacated the building in 2017, and the building was then sold to MNH for £225,000.
Back in 2019, the government had sought to sell it for £250,000 on the open market.
In the House of Keys last year, Arbory, Castletown and Malew Jason Moorhouse asked Enterprise Minister Tim Johnson if he would provide an update on the plans for the Old Police Station.
Mr Johnston replied: ‘Since the withdrawal of the prospective tenants last year, MNH has reviewed available options for the use of the Old Police Station. Trustees have supported the option to dispose of the former police station
‘An expression of interest will shortly be circulated to all government departments, boards and offices before place it on the open market.’
Mr Moorhouse asked why another tenant wasn’t sought and described putting the property on the open market as an ‘extreme solution’.
Mr Johnston said there were limitations in terms of how the property can be used due to its historic value which would cause problems for any tenant.
But he said any decision would have to come before Tynwald for approval.
Built between 1899 and 1901, the Old Police Station was Baillie-Scott’s final commission in the Isle of Man before moving back to England to practise.
His design included a visual reference to the neighbouring castle through the use of local Castletown limestone for its cylindrical turret and pyramidal roof.
It is the only police station Baillie-Scott ever designed.
The motion for the proposed sale has been tabled in accordance with the 1959 Manx Museum and National Trust Act 1959 and Treasury financial regulations.