Manx insulation grants extended

Grants for homeowners on the Isle of Man to install cavity wall insulation are to be made more widely available.

The new scheme, is to go before Tynwald this month for approval.

The change will make all house owner-occupiers eligible for grants covering half of the cost of the work, up to a maximum of £500.

Under the existing scheme grants can only be given to homeowners on low incomes, which does not apply to the new system.

Local government and environment minister John Shimmin said: "Cavity wall insulation is a relatively low-cost measure which produces immediate and significant benefits in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.

"Offering grants to a wider range of homeowners should encourage more people to have this work carried out. It is a step in the right direction in terms of protecting our environment."