The government’s powers to protect registered buildings are ’adequate’, according to Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot.

The minister was asked in Tynwald about the enforcement powers available.

Someone who carries out work on a protected building, without consent, can be fined up to £20,000 and/or forced to undo the work.

In terms of ensuring necessary maintenance of a registered building, the government can serve an enforcement notice or, ultimately, step in and carry out urgent work if the owner fails to act.

Asked by David Ashford (Douglas North) on the suitability of the powers, Mr Boot said: ’The current powers are adequate.’