Minister hits back in sprinkler row

Fri, 23 Jul 2010

Social Care Minister Martyn Quayle MHK

The Social Care Minister has hit back at Douglas Council over the inclusion of sprinkler systems in new build public sector housing.

Martyn Quayle says it isn't in the building regulations that such systems have to be included in properties on the Island, nor is it in any other part of the British Isles.

The Department of Social Care says it would cost £4000 to £6000 to install each sprinkler system at the cost of the tax payer.

Douglas Council estimates that each unit would cost around £2600.

The Department of Infrastructure is currently reviewing sprinkler systems, which could lead to a change in building regulations.

Council leader David Christian said the Council will be writing a strongly worded letter to Mr Quayle on the matter.