The first phase of a new social housing complex in Peel has been officially opened.

Mylchreest Court on Douglas Road, Peel, comprising 40 mostly one bedroom flats, is the first phase of Peel and Western District Housing Committee’s £25m three part plan to redevelop Westlands.

The bungalows and flats at Westlands are being demolished having been deemed ’not fit for purpose'.

Following the move of about half of the residents from Westlands, work has begun on phase B of the redevelopment. This will involve the area between Rheast Bridson and Tynwald Close and will see the construction of 32 new sheltered apartments.

Phase B is due for completion in March 2019 and work will then begin on phase C for construction of a new 15 apartment extension and conversion of 12 bungalows to provide six mobility standard bungalows.

The third phase is due to be completed by the summer of 2020.

Mylchreest Court takes it name from Peel philanthropist Joseph Mylchreest, known as ’The Diamond King’.

The costs associated with the first phase of the plans are about £5.2 million which includes construction, professional fees, moving costs and furnishing the communal areas.

Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney officially opened Mylchreest Court last Thursday in a ceremony attended by residents, staff, the Mylchreest family and politicians.

Alan Jones, chairman of Peel and Western District Housing Committee, said: ’We are honoured to have the Governor here and proud that the five housing authorities of Peel, Marown, Michael, Patrick and German have been able to work with the Department of Infrastructure to deliver stage one of this project’.

The Governor was given a tour of the facilities by Louise Bampton, clerk of Mylchreest Court and praised her and fellow staff for the smooth transition of the residents from Westlands.

Mr Jones said the Mylchreest’s are ’firmly ingrained in Peel’s history and life.’