The 2021 Isle of Man Census Report (Part I) has revealed a fall in the number of vacant properties in the Isle of Man. According to the latest census report, there were 775 less vacant properties in 2021 than in 2016, and 123 less vacant properties in 2021 than in 2016.
According to the Isle of Man Government:
- The 2011 census report revealed there were 5,818 vacant properties
- The 2016 census report revealed there were 6,470 vacant properties
- The 2021 census report revealed there were 5,695 vacant properties
In addition, the number of vacant properties recorded in 2021 is likely to be inflated, with the “true” number of vacant properties likely lower than reported. This is because the 2021 census was taken when Coronavirus restrictions were in effect. The number of vacant properties included flats, houses, and cottages used as holiday accommodation which likely had lower-than-usual occupancy rates due to the Coronavirus restrictions.
In addition, it is possible that the number of vacant properties included properties where Manx residents were travelling abroad over the long weekend that the 2021 census was taken.