Published: 19 June 2025
By: UK RAAC Campaign Group
On 9th June, RAAC-affected homeowners in Clackmannanshire gathered outside a long-overdue meeting between Councillors and representatives from McConnell, a contractor appointed to present detailed proposals for the long-awaited remediation of dangerously compromised homes. Residents rallied for a fair deal, determined to have their voices heard after over a year of delays and deteriorating conditions.
While the overall proposals outlined by McConnell were cautiously welcomed—demonstrating a long-term and professional approach to RAAC removal and full refurbishment—residents were dismayed to learn that these very proposals had been first offered to the Council over a year ago, yet were never shared with the homeowners till February 2025 and due to their late responses to lead campaigner Wilson Chowdhry, reaching this stage of meeting with the contractor has only come about now. This delay, they say, has added thousands of pounds to the projected cost of refurbishment for each household.
About McConnell and the Proposed Works
McConnell is a well-established UK-based provider of refurbishment, retrofit, and planned maintenance services, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality projects—including experience with RAAC removal—in Clackmannanshire and beyond. Their local supply chain and established teams add an extra layer of efficiency and familiarity to the proposed project.
Two primary options were put forward:
Option 1: Full External Refurbishment
Option 2: Partial External Refurbishment
Both options include:
-
Full RAAC roof panel removal and replacement with a steel deck roof
-
Insulated roof coverings
-
Internal works and asbestos surveys
-
Scaffolding and safe site setup
However, Option 1 (Full Refurbishment) goes further by including:
-
Scrim and pin render system in a choice of colours
-
Cavity wall insulation
-
Renewed gutters, fascias, and plastics
-
Base band and landscaping works
-
Guaranteed durability and aesthetic improvements
Full refurbishment provides:
-
A refreshed, modernised exterior
-
Lower energy bills due to improved insulation
-
Long-term guarantees for peace of mind
Partial refurbishment would be more cost-efficient but may not qualify for the same level of guarantee or visual improvement an none of the homeowners wanted that option.
Chronic Delays Now Costing Homeowners Dearly
At the meeting, homeowners learned that McConnell’s plan had originally been shared with the Council in 2024, but no action had been taken to communicate or consult with residents at that time. One homeowner at the protest stated:
“We could have had work underway months ago. Now our costs are up, our homes are in worse shape, and we’re the ones left to pay for it.”
The total cost estimate for Chapelle Crescent is £368,352—breaking down to £30,696 per property (based on 12 households). A similar scope applies to High Street/Park Street.
Technical Highlights of the Refurbishment Plan
The project includes the following robust upgrades:
-
RAAC Demolition & Repairs
-
SIGnature Insulated Flat Roofing System with 150mm insulation and fire-rated layers
-
Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation – energy efficient, water-resistant, fire-compliant
-
EnviroDash Scrim Render System – high durability and visual appeal
-
New drainage, plastics, and fascia systems
-
Asbestos Surveys – for safety and compliance
-
Landscaping and base band works
Approvals, Warranties & Timeline
Before works can begin, a Building Warrant must be secured. This statutory approval process takes approximately 8 weeks, covering:
-
Structural engineering design
-
Thermal and sound performance
-
Fire safety compliance
After successful completion, residents will receive:
-
✅ 25-Year Roofing System Guarantee
-
✅ 10-Year Render System Guarantee
-
✅ 25-Year Cavity Wall Insulation Insurance Guarantee
-
✅ Building Warrant Completion Certificate
If McConnell proceeds, residents can expect:
-
A 7–14 day Works Starting Letter
-
Advance request to remove personal belongings from top-floor flats
-
A 7-day Completion Notice ahead of project handover
-
Post-handover support for move-in preparations
A Step Forward—But Too Late for Some
This meeting marked the first time many homeowners saw real, tangible progress. But it also marked a bitter realisation: the solution was available a year ago, yet withheld without explanation. With costs rising and properties decaying, campaigners continue to call for transparency, accountability, and financial fairness.
The UK RAAC Campaign Group supports Clackmannanshire residents in demanding immediate progress—and calling for compensation or cost relief to reflect the Council’s inaction.
If you are a homeowner affected by RAAC or want to support the campaign, please contact us or follow our updates on https://www.facebook.com/groups/7162085643898771
No comments:
Post a Comment