The affected flats include those at 75-97 Chapelle Crescent, 6-22 Park Street, and 35-51 High Street. Residents, who have been living in temporary accommodation for over a year, were shocked to hear Councillor Jane McTaggart, spokesperson for housing and property, state that written updates had been provided. This statement has been disputed by the community, who claim they have received no such communication.
In response to the ongoing concerns, a meeting has been scheduled for 20th September with Kevin Wells, the Strategic Director for Place, who is one of the three directors under the Chief Executive overseeing different business areas. Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, will also attend the meeting. This gathering aims to provide residents with a much-needed platform to voice their concerns and seek direct answers from the council regarding the issues they have faced.
In a private WhatsApp group, residents have expressed their anger and frustration at the council's handling of the situation. Kay, one of the residents, stated: “Why are they lying? What do they have to hide or gain by doing so? We feel totally let down and disappointed by this behaviour.” Another resident, Lynsey McQuater, simply called the council’s statement "utter lies." Many others have shared sentiments that, due to the language used, cannot be publicly repeated, highlighting the depth of anger and hurt felt within the community.
This anger has led residents to reach out to the Alloa Advertiser and the BBC, calling for an investigation into the council's handling of the situation. Additionally, Wilson Chowdhry has contacted Central FM, which initially reported the council’s announcement, to inform them that the statement is incorrect.
Adding to the residents' distress, the situation has been exacerbated by recent incidents of vandalism and attempted break-ins at the affected properties. On the same day, a letter from Lee Robertson, the council’s Senior Manager for Legal and Governance, was received, rejecting an online petition for fair treatment and support for homeowners affected by RAAC. The council’s response, perceived as lacking empathy, has only served to increase residents' frustration, particularly after Robertson's comments about the council "saving their lives" and making the properties safe at the council's cost.
Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, said: "The lack of clear and honest communication from Clackmannanshire Council is deeply unhelpful and adds significant trauma to residents who are already highly stressed. These properties were sold without any disclosure of the cheap, crumbly concrete used in their roofs, and now, these homeowners are paying the price. It is unacceptable that they are left in the dark, while the council appears more focused on public relations than addressing the real and urgent needs of those affected."
The community calls on Clackmannanshire Council to provide truthful, timely, and transparent communication, alongside meaningful support for those whose lives have been upended by this crisis. The upcoming meeting on 20th September will be a critical opportunity for the council to rebuild trust and demonstrate genuine commitment to resolving the ongoing challenges faced by Tillicoultry residents.
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