The government is looking at options for the future of Ramsey Courthouse.

A Department of Home Affairs spokesman said: ’The Department of Home Affairs is currently considering its options regarding the future of the Ramsey Courthouse building.’

The building was the subject of protests in 2015 with hundreds of people gathering in a bid to keep the town’s post office, based at the courthouse, from closure.

It followed an announcement that both the Ramsey and Douglas main post offices would close to save money, with the branches moving into nearby Spar shops.

Ramsey Town Commissioners have now launched a consultation to give members of the public an opportunity to express their views as to future possible uses of the courthouse.

Ramsey commissioner, Eric Corkish said he felt it would be regrettable if the DHA was looking to sell the property privately.

He said: ’A lot of money has been spent on the grounds of the building from the regeneration fund and it has been the focal point for community activities with the commissioners installing lights with different themes projected on to the building.

’When the Post Office was moved to the Spar shop it was stated that the courthouse could be used for the community of Ramsey, with the transfer of ownership to be negotiated with the commissioners - not to be sold off and lost to the community.

’Ramsey Commissioners has 10 new members since the local elections last year and very early on we formed a committee, of which I am one, to look at the future of the building. A site meeting with the Home Affairs members, local MHKs and commissioners’ officers has taken place.

’As a commissioner, I will try to make sure we do not lose this building, so I request that people go to the online survey or write to the Town Hall and let us know what they want for the town.’

You can give your views on the future of the courthouse via the consultation here www.surveymonkey.com/r/courthouse_options