Tue, 18 Jun 2019
By Local Democracy Reporter Ewan Gawne
The chairman of Ramsey Commissioners says an agreement over the future of the town’s historic courthouse will have a ‘positive impact’ on ratepayers.
Not-for-profit group the Heart of Ramsey Limited (THOR) has agreed a contract with the local authority to develop the site as a community hub.
Its preliminary designs for the courthouse include the creation of additional audience space, an eating area, office storage and full refurbishment of the building.
Andy Cowie says as a collection of local figures, the group has the best interests of the town at heart, and has described the plans as ‘pretty special’.
Around half a million pounds will need to be raised for THOR to realise its ambitions for the courthouse, according to chair of the trustees, Ayre & Michael MHK Tim Baker.
The historic building was purchased by the commissioners from the Manx government in 2017 for £80,000.
Mr Cowie explained the financial impact of the project on the people of Ramsey: