The deadline for the submission of expressions of interest for Ramsey Courthouse has now been extended until noon on Friday, May 11.

Ramsey Commissioners say they are keen that the Courthouse should remain a key part of the town centre and provide some benefit to the community as well as being financially sustainable.

The authority is asking companies or organisations for the future use of the building or parts of the building.

Submissions should detail the proposed future use of the building, parts of the building affected. outline business plan, intended community benefit, indication of likely operating hours and rental offer.

There was an outcry and demonstrations outside the building when the government put the building on the market at a price of £475,000.

The government backed down and Ramsey Commissioners agreed terms with the Department of Home Affairs to acquire Ramsey Courthouse.

In return for the transfer of the freehold title of the Ramsey Courthouse and grounds, including the site of the war memorial and gardens, Ramsey Commissioners agreed to grant the department a 25-year lease on the existing police office at Ramsey Town Hall at a nominal rent and to make an additional payment of £80,000.

But Ramsey’s local authority didn’t have a plan for the building’s future use - and, since the deadline for expressions of interest has been extended, it seems that it still doesn’t.