RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) continues to pose a significant challenge for homeowners in Clackmannanshire, with safety concerns affecting a number of residential properties. Over recent months, discussions have been ongoing between affected homeowners, Clackmannanshire Council, and the Scottish Government to secure funding for remediation and support measures.
Clackmannanshire Council has submitted a formal funding request to the Scottish Government on 23rd January under the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, after a request from Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group. This request aims to provide financial assistance for:
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Acquisition of private properties in buildings deemed unsafe;
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Refurbishment of council-owned properties in affected blocks;
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Fabric costs, including roofs and external render;
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Environmental improvements to support homeowners and reduce costs where possible.
If the funding request is successful, voluntary acquisition offers to affected homeowners may increase, potentially easing financial burdens for homeowners who have already sold or are considering selling their homes. In a recent conversation with Mr Chowdhry, Kevin Wells indicated that increases in the range of £10,000–£15,000 per homeowner could be expected if the funding bid is successful.
However, it remains unclear whether the only option for private RAAC homeowners will be the voluntary acquisition process, or whether those who wish to retain their properties could have additional allowances applied directly to replacement roof costs and new external render. If the proposed environmental grants are approved, this could provide an additional financial benefit of several thousand pounds to struggling homeowners.
Homeowners have also faced difficulties due to sudden changes in council deadlines for accepting rebuild offers or voluntary acquisitions, which were only clarified after persistent queries from Mr Chowdhry, highlighting ongoing communication issues.
Homeowners have been actively engaging with both the Council and Scottish Government officials. In a February meeting with the Scottish Government Housing Directorate, officials indicated that Clackmannanshire Council’s funding request would be expedited. The UK RAAC Campaign Group has been following up to seek a clear response. The Government has been asked to clarify when a formal decision will be made, whether any additional information is required, and if interim support measures are being considered for affected homeowners.
Supporters of RAAC homeowners are encouraged to write to their MSPs or to the Scottish Housing Minister, Mairi McAllan, to raise awareness and to support the timely delivery of these funds, or to respond to Clackmannanshire Council.
While progress is being made, affected homeowners continue to face uncertainty, and ongoing engagement with both local authorities and government remains crucial to ensure their safety and financial security.
📧 Email: wilson@aasecurity.co.uk
📢 Twitter/X: https://x.com/WilsonChowdhry
#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence
