Community members express concerns over funding and safety in Balnagask area.
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In a poignant meeting held in Balnagask, members of the Torry Community Raac Campaign made heartfelt appeals to Paul McLennan, the SNP housing minister, as they navigated the complexities of a crisis that has left many residents in distress. This meeting marked the first direct engagement between the minister and the campaigners since the Raac (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) issue came to light over a year ago.
During the one-hour discussion, affected homeowners presented McLennan with approximately 40 letters detailing their experiences and concerns. The presence of Raac material in around 500 homes within the Balnagask area has raised significant safety alarms, prompting urgent calls for action.
Lynn Winstanley, a resident who participated in the meeting, expressed her belief that the minister was receptive to their worries, albeit frustrated by the delay in his visit.
Winstanley articulated a sentiment shared by many: homeowners feel trapped in a blame game among the city council, the Scottish Government, and the UK Government regarding funding solutions. With Aberdeen City Council planning to demolish the affected properties by 2028, some homeowners are resisting sales, complicating the situation further.
Financial implications for homeowners
One of the pressing issues discussed was the financial impact on residents. Currently, the city council is offering compensation based on the current market value of the homes, which has resulted in average losses ranging from £35,000 to £55,000 for homeowners. Winstanley called for the Scottish Government to establish a fund that would ensure homeowners receive full compensation for their properties, emphasizing the human cost of the crisis.
“In the middle of all this are human beings whose lives are being affected morning, noon, and night,” she stated, highlighting the emotional toll on families. Ian Lippe, chair of the Torry Community Raac Campaign, echoed these sentiments, noting that campaigners feel they are being “pushed from pillar to post” in their quest for funding and resolution.
Government responsibilities and next steps
When questioned about the delay in addressing the community’s needs, McLennan acknowledged his engagement with local council officials but did not apologize for his absence. He reiterated that building safety falls under the jurisdiction of local authorities and suggested that the UK Government should establish a nationwide fund to address such issues. However, the UK Government has countered that it is the responsibility of devolved administrations and local councils to manage these matters.
Christian Allard, co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, emphasized the need for a cohesive plan from both the Scottish and UK governments to support local authorities in assisting tenants and homeowners. The ongoing struggle of residents in Balnagask has garnered attention, with local media launching the “Trapped by Raac” campaign to further highlight the plight of those affected.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Torry Community Raac Campaign remains steadfast in its pursuit of a fair resolution, urging all parties involved to prioritize the welfare of the residents caught in this crisis.
