Radio Caroline Weekend

One of the things I enjoyed most as Chairman of Ramsey Town Commissioners was helping bring ideas to life.

People often asked me, “What does a Commissioner actually do?”

My answer was always the same: a Commissioner is a facilitator.

The role is about bringing people together, removing obstacles and creating opportunities that benefit the community.

One project that perfectly captured that was the return of Radio Caroline.

The famous offshore station last broadcast from Ramsey Bay in 1968. In 2024, working alongside Chris Pearson from Manx Radio—himself a former Radio Caroline DJ—we recreated that moment by broadcasting live from the original location off the Bahama Bank.

It was a unique event that celebrated Ramsey’s history, generated national interest and gave residents and visitors something truly memorable.

Sometimes public service is about solving problems. Sometimes it’s about creating moments people will never forget.

Appointing a New Town Clerk

One of the most important responsibilities I had as Chairman was leading the process to appoint a new Town Clerk.

This wasn’t simply about filling a vacancy. It was an opportunity to review the organisation, understand the skills needed for the future and recruit the right person to lead the Commissioners into the next chapter.

I’m delighted that Derek Flint accepted the role.

He has worked hard to strengthen the organisation, rebuild capacity and provide strong professional leadership. I enjoyed working closely with Derek and would welcome the opportunity to continue that partnership in the future if elected as Ramsey’s MHK.

Forrest View Apartments

This is probably the achievement I’m proudest of during my time as Chairman.

For many years, the former Mart site behind the Town Hall had been discussed but never progressed. When the opportunity arose to purchase the completed Forrest View Apartments, I believed the timing was right to think differently.

Rather than building new social housing ourselves at significantly greater cost, we had the opportunity to acquire twenty high-quality homes at excellent value for money, with the potential for even more homes through future redesign.

To me, this represented exactly how the public and private sectors should work together.

Instead of operating in isolation, we should build partnerships that reduce costs, accelerate delivery and achieve better outcomes for taxpayers.

That philosophy doesn’t just apply to Ramsey. I believe it should become part of how Government delivers projects across the Isle of Man.

Ramsey Quayside Redevelopment

The Quayside redevelopment is one of the most important projects for Ramsey’s future.

Quite simply, it needs to happen.

For too long, Ramsey has seen very little significant public investment in its infrastructure. Completing the flood defence scheme won’t simply protect existing properties—it will unlock future investment throughout the town.

Once flood mapping changes, sites that have remained undevelopable for years become viable for housing, businesses and regeneration.

This isn’t just about one project.

It’s about creating the conditions for Ramsey’s next generation of growth.

Brownfield Redevelopment

Ramsey has significant areas of brownfield land sitting unused.

That needs to change.

Both public bodies and private landowners have a responsibility to look at how these sites can contribute to the town’s future.

Unlocking land for housing, businesses and community use is essential if Ramsey is to grow and prosper.

I believe the Quayside redevelopment will act as the catalyst that encourages investment, improves land values and gives owners the confidence to bring long-overdue projects forward.

Representing Ramsey

One of the greatest privileges of serving as Chairman was representing Ramsey at events across the Island.

Whether attending Tynwald Day, Government House, supporting local sports clubs, community events or celebrating projects such as Radio Caroline, I was always proud to represent our town.

Ramsey has enormous potential.

If elected as your MHK, I’ll continue to champion our town, attract investment, build partnerships and work tirelessly to create new opportunities for Ramsey and for the Isle of Man.

I believe Government works best when it delivers—and that’s exactly the approach I’ll bring to Tynwald..