Open Letter: Request for Official Minutes and Written Update – RAAC Crisis Meeting, Atlantic Quay, 19 February 2026

 

27^th February 2026

Deputy Director for Better Homes
DG Communities
Housing Directorate
Scottish Government
Atlantic Quay
Glasgow

G2 8JQ

Open Letter: Request for Official Minutes and Written Update – RAAC Crisis Meeting, Atlantic Quay, 19 February 2026

Dear Mr Elsby,

I write further to the meeting held on Thursday 19 February 2026 at Atlantic Quay between members of the UK RAAC Campaign Group and officials of the Scottish Government, including yourself in your capacity as Deputy Director of the Better Homes Division.

Given the seriousness of the matters discussed, I would be grateful if you could now provide:

1.     The official minutes of the meeting;

2.     A written summary of agreed actions and commitments;

3.     Clarification of timelines for the written follow-up responses that were promised.

As you will appreciate, the issues raised concern homeowners facing catastrophic structural failure, financial displacement, and prolonged uncertainty. It is therefore essential that a clear and accurate public record exists.

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1. West Lothian – Allegations Raised

Ms Kerry MacIntosh raised concerns regarding evidence she believes may demonstrate prior knowledge of RAAC within properties linked to Almond Housing Association and West Lothian Council.

You confirmed that the submitted documentation had been reviewed but that no further action would be taken at this stage. However, no clarification was provided as to:

·       Who reviewed the evidence;

·       What assessment criteria were applied;

·       Whether any threshold for referral to Police Scotland was considered;

·       Whether any internal discussion occurred regarding potential governance or oversight implications.

For transparency, please confirm whether any formal assessment record exists and whether a written conclusion was produced.

Ms MacIntosh also requested a meeting with John Swinney. This request was not acknowledged during the meeting. Please confirm whether it has since been considered.

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2. IStructE / ABI Guidance and Mortgage Normalisation

You outlined ongoing stakeholder work involving the Institution of Structural Engineers and the Association of British Insurers to ensure remediated properties are treated as structurally sound.

However, significant unresolved concerns remain for “green” and “amber” classified properties, including:

·       Ongoing inspection liabilities;

·       Mortgage accessibility barriers;

·       Insurance scrutiny;

·       Depressed market confidence.

No timeline was provided for restoration of normal mortgage and insurance arrangements. Please confirm:

·       Whether a target framework or milestone plan exists;

·       What engagement has taken place with UK regulators and lenders;

·       What specific outcomes homeowners can realistically expect, and by when.

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3. Innovation and Alternative Remediation (Regrid)

It was clarified during the meeting that Regrid had not, in fact, been approached within national discussions, contrary to initial suggestion.

Please confirm:

·       Whether the Scottish Government will now facilitate engagement between innovative remediation providers and IStructE;

·       Whether guidance will be issued to local authorities to prevent disproportionate approval barriers that increase homeowner costs.

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4. National Remediation Fund

You confirmed there has been no change in the position of the UK Government regarding establishment of a national RAAC remediation fund.

You further confirmed that the Scottish Government maintains that responsibility lies with Westminster.

For completeness, please confirm whether any of the following steps have been taken by the Scottish Government:

·       Formal intergovernmental representations;

·       Raising the matter through Joint Ministerial Committee structures;

·       Lodging a motion in the Scottish Parliament;

·       Publishing a formal policy position paper;

·       Commissioning legal advice to strengthen the case for financial redress.

If none of the above have been undertaken, please clarify what alternative escalation mechanism is being pursued.

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5. Public Inquiry

You confirmed that the Government does not consider a Public Inquiry appropriate at this time, despite evidence previously submitted to Ministers highlighting:

·       Historic failure to act on structural warnings;

·       Inconsistent oversight;

·       Councils losing track of RAAC properties;

·       Potential systemic governance failings.

Please confirm:

·       Who reviewed the submitted dossier;

·       What threshold of evidence would trigger reconsideration of an Inquiry;

·       Whether any independent review mechanism is being contemplated as an alternative.

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6. Legislative Reform and UK Engagement

During discussion of restoration of First-Time Buyer status and capital-only mortgage protections for displaced homeowners, officials appeared uncertain as to the status of representations to the UK Government.

You agreed to revisit this with the Cabinet Secretary and provide written clarification.

Please confirm:

·       What formal representations have been made to UK Ministers;

·       On what dates;

·       Whether any written responses have been received;

·       What further steps are now proposed.

In addition, you agreed to review the protections contained within the Building Safety Act 2022 and clarify why equivalent protection is not available to Scottish homeowners. Please provide that written assessment.

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7. Clackmannanshire Funding Request

You stated that Clackmannanshire Council’s funding request (submitted 23 January 2026 under the Affordable Housing Supply Programme) would be expedited.

Please confirm:

·       The date by which a formal decision will be issued;

·       Whether additional information has been requested from the Council;

·       Whether any interim support mechanism is being considered.

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8. Outstanding Written Responses

Due to time constraints, several agenda items could not be fully explored. I therefore request confirmation that all items contained within the submittedwritten agenda will receive formal written responses.

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Conclusion

The meeting provided an important opportunity for direct engagement. However, on the core issues of a national remediation fund and a Public Inquiry, no policy shift occurred.

Given the scale of the crisis and the continued financial harm experienced by homeowners, it is essential that the commitments made — including written follow-ups and funding expedition — are progressed without delay.

I would be grateful to receive the official minutes and written update within 14 days of this letter.

Yours sincerely,

Wilson Chowdhry
Chairman
UK RAAC Campaign Group

RAAC Crisis Talks at Atlantic Quay – Funding Pressure Applied and Clackmannanshire Bid Fast-Tracked

L–R: Fiona Crichton, Kerry MacIntosh, and Wilson Chowdhry outside the Scottish Government headquarters at Atlantic Quay, Glasgow.

On Thursday 19th February 2026 at 13:30pm, members of the UK RAAC Campaign Group met senior Scottish Government officials at Atlantic Quay in Glasgow — the Government’s central administrative headquarters.

The meeting was convened to allow campaign representatives and affected homeowners to formally present concerns regarding the ongoing Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) housing crisis. Officials present included Matthew Elsby, Deputy Director of the Better Homes Division, alongside representatives from Building Safety and Housing policy teams.

The purpose of the meeting was to address critical issues including the absence of a national remediation fund, calls for a Public Inquiry, legislative reform proposals, mortgage and insurance barriers, and concerns surrounding council oversight and funding delays.

While no shift occurred on the central policy positions of Government, the meeting did result in a commitment to expedite Clackmannanshire Council’s outstanding funding request — a small but tangible outcome in an otherwise unresolved national crisis.

Concerns Regarding Alleged Fraud – West Lothian

Kerry MacIntosh was invited to speak before the main agenda began. She raised serious concerns about what she believes may constitute fraud or corruption in the sale of RAAC homes by West Lothian Council.

She and Ashleigh Mitchell, leader of Craigshill raac home owners group had previously handed 2004 articles to Matt Elsby in December 2025 when the housing minister Mairi McAllan visited West Lothian. 

Ashleigh Mitchell wrote (sic): "The articles proved that Almond housing association were aware of the material being in the roof & walls at the same time Deans South was condemned but yet Almond housing stated in 2024 that they only discovered raac in 2023 when the government announced them to check their housing stock, however that can't be true. The company knew."

 "I hannded extensive evidence to Angela Constance MSP who then provided it to the previous minister Paul Mclennan in August 2024 pointing out that although the BRS in England stated it was acceptable, they also clearly stated "they did not view it was suitable for Scotland"

Ms Macintosh expressed dissatisfaction with the response received, which merely stated that the documents had been reviewed. She sought clarity on who had reviewed the evidence and what discussions had taken place.

Mr Elsby responded that the documents had been examined but that there would be no further action at this stage.

Mr Chowdhry asked whether officials had identified any cause for concern that might warrant referral to Police Scotland, and whether, if such concerns existed, it would not be appropriate for the Government to cascade the material to the police. He made it clear that he had not personally reviewed the evidence but was supporting Ms MacIntosh’s request for transparency.

Mr Elsby stated that it would not be appropriate for the Scottish Government to comment further. He advised that any criminal concerns should first be raised with local police, and that if a formal investigation were initiated, the Government could then consider its own position.

Ms MacIntosh requested a meeting with Deputy First Minister John Swinney to discuss the matter further. This request was not acknowledged during the meeting.

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Working Group and IStructE Guidance

Mr Elsby described ongoing work through a stakeholder working group involving bodies such as Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and Association of British Insurers (ABI).

We were informed that guidance produced by IStructE — and approved by ABI and other stakeholders — is intended to help ensure that properties undergoing approved remedial works are treated by lenders and insurers as though structurally sound.

However, Mr Chowdhry raised serious concerns that this framework does not resolve the injustice faced by homeowners whose properties are classified as “green” or “amber” under IStructE guidance. These households may still face:

• Ongoing inspection costs

• Increased insurance scrutiny

• Reduced mortgage accessibility

• Long-term financial uncertainty

Mr Elsby acknowledged these challenges but stated that discussions are ongoing to find best-fit solutions.

When asked about timelines for the restoration of normal mortgage and insurance arrangements for remediated homes, no clear timescale could be provided.

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Innovation Barriers – The Case of Regrid

Mr Chowdhry raised concerns that innovative and potentially more cost-effective remediation solutions, such as Regrid, are not being properly integrated into national discussions.

An official initially suggested such companies had likely been approached. Mr Chowdhry was able to confirm that Regrid had not. In addition, some local authorities appear to be placing highly restrictive approval requirements on alternative remediation providers.

Mr Chowdhry stressed that Government-facilitated engagement with IStructE could streamline approvals and reduce costs for homeowners. This point was noted for consideration.

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National Fund – No Change in Position

Mr Chowdhry asked directly what response had been received from the UK Government regarding repeated requests for a national RAAC remediation fund.

Mr Elsby confirmed there had been no change — the UK Government has not agreed to create such a fund.

He then asked whether the Scottish Government would step in.

The response was unequivocal: the Scottish Government maintains that funding responsibility lies with the UK Government and that it does not have the resources to establish a national fund of its own.

This remains a deeply concerning position.

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Public Inquiry – Refusal Maintained

Mr Chowdhry pressed officials on the continued refusal to establish a Public Inquiry.

He referenced the dossier of evidence previously submitted to Minister McAllan, including:

• Councils losing track of RAAC properties

• Failure to act on structural warnings from the 1990s and 2000s

• Slow and inconsistent Government responses

• Evidence suggesting potential political failings

Despite this, Mr Elsby confirmed that the Government’s priority is focused on solution-based working groups and panels. It does not consider a Public Inquiry the appropriate course of action at this time.

Mr Chowdhry asked what threshold of evidence would justify an inquiry. No clear answer was given.

No clarification was provided regarding who had reviewed the submitted evidence.

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Legislative Reform – Confusion and Follow-Up Promised

Mr Chowdhry sought an update on progress pursuing the UK Government regarding:

• Restoration of First-Time Buyer status for homeowners displaced by catastrophic construction defects

• Capital-only mortgage arrangements for homes lost due to structural failure

Despite previous written and verbal commitments made by Minister McAllan in Clackmannanshire, officials appeared uncertain about the status of these discussions.

Here is a more polished, firm, and strategically framed version — with clearer explanation of the Scottish Government’s available powers:

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Initially, officials suggested that the UK Government’s position on legal reform had not changed. However, after sustained questioning, Mr Elsby agreed to raise the matter again with the Cabinet Secretary and to provide a written update by email clarifying what representations, if any, had been made.

More concerning was the suggestion from one official that the Scottish Government had no recourse to change such legislation — appearing to misunderstand the substance of the request. We were not suggesting that Holyrood could unilaterally amend UK-wide financial or mortgage law. Rather, we were asking that the Scottish Government use the full extent of its constitutional and political powers to advocate for reform.

These powers include:

• Formally lodging intergovernmental representations to UK Ministers

• Raising the matter through Joint Ministerial Committee structures

• Passing a motion in the Scottish Parliament calling for specific UK legislative amendments

• Commissioning legal opinion to strengthen the case for reform

• Publishing a formal position paper calling for targeted amendments to UK financial regulations

• Building cross-party support to increase political pressure

The issue at hand — restoration of First-Time Buyer status and capital-only mortgage protections for those displaced by catastrophic construction defects — sits squarely within UK legislative competence. But that does not absolve the Scottish Government of responsibility to advocate robustly on behalf of Scottish homeowners.

The concern was not about legislative competence. It was about political will.

Mr Elsby ultimately agreed to revisit the matter with the Cabinet Secretary and confirm what further steps could be taken.

Mr Chowdhry also raised the protections contained within the Building Safety Act 2022, asking why similar provisions are not being introduced in Scotland.

Mr Elsby stated that some UK laws extend to Scotland. Mr Chowdhry clarified that this Act does not provide equivalent protection to Scottish homeowners. Mr Elsby agreed to examine the legislation’s provisions and respond in writing.

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Funding Delays – Clackmannanshire Case

Mr Chowdhry highlighted the delays caused by the piecemeal process under the Affordable Housing Supply Programme.

Specifically, he raised the case of Clackmannanshire Council’s funding request, submitted to the Scottish Government in a letter on 23rd January, for which nearly a month had passed without response.

Mr Elsby stated that the request would be expedited.

On housing association support, including the situation involving Almond Housing Association in West Lothian, we were told that discussions are ongoing between councils, housing associations, and Government to find workable solutions.

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Time Constraints and Outstanding Questions

Due to the limited time allocated for the meeting, several agenda items could not be fully explored. Mr requested that officials review the full written agenda and provide further responses in writing.

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Conclusion

The meeting provided an opportunity to articulate concerns clearly and directly. However, on the core issues — a national fund and a Public Inquiry — there has been no policy shift.

Some commitments were made to provide written follow-up and to expedite specific funding requests. Whether those commitments translate into meaningful progress remains to be seen.

The crisis continues. And so must the campaign.

The opportunity is now. What happens next will determine whether governments rise to this challenge — or are remembered for failing those who needed them most.

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PETITION (CLICK HERE)  

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#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence 

Confusion, Exclusion and Broken Commitments – Why RAAC Campaigners Are Losing Faith in Scotland’s Housing Leadership

Wilson and Hannah Chowdhry’s petition being considered by the Scottish Parliament’s Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee for the first time. The petition has already received strong cross-sector support, with several MSPs, MPs, and building-safety organisations submitting evidence in favour of its proposals. Livingston MP Gregor Poynton has also recently confirmed that he will be making an additional supporting submission.

Growing Concern Over Chaotic and Selective Engagement by Scottish Housing Minister in RAAC Crisis

Serious concerns are being raised by RAAC-affected homeowners in both West Lothian and Clackmannanshire over what they describe as disorganised, inconsistent, and politically selective engagement by Housing Minister Mairi McAllan, her team within Better Homes, and associated Scottish Government officials.

Over recent months—and especially in the past two weeks—residents have repeatedly faced contradictory communications, unexplained changes to meeting arrangements, selective invitations, and last-minute online meeting requests that demonstrate little regard for the severity and complexity of the RAAC housing crisis. These failures are now causing real frustration, anxiety, and a growing sense of distrust among affected homeowners.

Chaotic Scheduling and Last-Minute Online Meetings

In Clackmannanshire, residents were first told there would be an in-person meeting with the Housing Minister—something promised in Ms McAllan’s own letter  of 11 August 2025.

Alongside the planned local meetings for homeowners, a separate meeting between the Scottish Government and the UK RAAC Campaign Group leadership was always expected. However, every request made by Wilson Chowdhry for this meeting clearly stated that it must include Housing Minister Mairi McAllan, and ideally First Minister John Swinney, given the national significance of the crisis.

Instead, officials have now attempted to schedule this separate engagement as a last-minute MS Teams call, offering only two slots with less than 48 hours’ notice, and—critically—without the Housing Minister or the First Minister present. This approach directly contradicts the long-standing requests for ministerial attendance and fundamentally undermines the purpose of the meeting itself. It is all the more inexplicable given First Minister John Swinney’s televised statement expressing his willingness to meet RAAC-affected homeowners. The government’s actions simply do not match its public assurances.

Officials were already aware that online meetings are extremely challenging for Wilson Chowdhry due to his Asperger’s, something he has explained repeatedly. Face-to-face engagement, with supportive individuals physically present, is essential for him to process complex discussions clearly and calmly. Despite this, rushed online meetings continue to be pushed, disregarding both accessibility needs and the seriousness of the issues at stake.

Wilson was clear in his response:

“To place the burden of rushed online meetings on people already living through a prolonged housing crisis is unacceptable. Respectful engagement requires planning, clarity and genuine partnership – none of which we are currently seeing.”
— Wilson Chowdhry, Chair, UK RAAC Campaign Group

The last-minute nature of these invites mirrors the earlier fiasco surrounding the cancelled Clackmannanshire Council meeting in September, further amplifying concerns about professionalism and good faith.

Inconsistent Invitations and Political Selectivity

Residents in West Lothian report equally troubling behaviour. Local leaders were told by councillors that a meeting was being arranged for 20 November, only to later discover that the Scottish Government had separately told Kerry Macintosh—West Lothian lead and UK RAAC Campaign Group Vice Chair—that a meeting would be held on 3 December instead. This created confusion, duplication, and the clear impression that officials were making parallel plans without transparency.

This feeds into a wider pattern. Two Dundee representatives were invited to ministerial meetings in Aberdeen, but neither Wilson nor his daughter Hannah—both of whom own RAAC-affected property in Aberdeen and have been central to national advocacy—were invited to attend despite requests.

Kerry Macintosh summarised homeowners' feelings bluntly:

“Communities who have fought side-by-side for two years will not allow themselves to be divided now. If the Government wants trust, it must stop choosing who is ‘allowed’ to speak.”
— Kerry Macintosh, Vice Chair, UK RAAC Campaign Group

Homeowners Unite Against Attempts to Divide Communities

Both West Lothian and Clackmannanshire residents have made it absolutely clear that attempts to restrict, filter, or politically manage attendance at these meetings will not be tolerated. Those affected want parity—especially given that government officials regularly bring attendees from outside the local area.

Homeowners across both regions have stated unequivocally that they will stage walkouts if either Wilson Chowdhry or Kerry Macintosh are denied entry to the meetings scheduled for 19 November (Clackmannanshire) or 3 December (West Lothian).

Furthermore, a public protest is now planned outside the Kilncraigs Council Offices in Clackmannanshire ahead of the Minister’s 10:00am meeting on the 19th, signalling just how seriously residents view this issue.

Key Role of UK RAAC Campaign Group Continually Overlooked

Beyond local representation, Wilson’s national advocacy has been indispensable to the progress of the RAAC homeowners’ campaign. He:

• Wrote the UK Parliamentary Petition on behalf of affected homeowners.

• Co-wrote the Scottish Parliamentary Petition with his daughter, Hannah.

• Ensured both petitions gained substantial national attention, keeping the RAAC crisis on the agenda of MSPs, MPs, and the wider public.

• Submitted a detailed response to the Scottish Government’s Building Safety Consultation, large parts of which appear to be reflected in the Housing Minister’s recent policy position—yet without acknowledgement of his or the campaign’s contribution.

Homeowners across Scotland credit these efforts with ensuring that the crisis could not be quietly parked or politically minimised. It is unsurprising, therefore, that attempts to sideline or exclude him are causing deep suspicion and anger among those he represents.

Residents Demand Transparency, Respect and Genuine Dialogue

The pattern now emerging—last-minute scheduling, inconsistent messaging, selective invitations, exclusion of national representatives, and a lack of clarity regarding ministerial attendance—has left homeowners in both regions questioning the Scottish Government’s commitment to transparent and fair engagement.

In communities already displaced from their homes, living with financial fear and emotional strain, these administrative failings are not minor issues—they are further injury.

Residents are calling for:

1. Clear, consistent scheduling with reasonable notice.

2. Guaranteed attendance of Wilson Chowdhry and Kerry Macintosh at all meetings involving their regions.

3. Ministerial presence, as committed in writing.

4. An end to selective engagement, which is eroding community confidence.

5. Respectful, transparent, community-led meetings, not stage-managed sessions.

Join the Fight

If you or someone you know is affected by RAAC, or if you want to support our campaign, follow us on social media and get in touch. Together, we can make sure no one is left to face this crisis alone.

Sign our petitions: 

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PETITION (CLICK HERE)  OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION: (CLICK HERE)

📧 Email: wilson@aasecurity.co.uk
📢 Twitter/X: https://x.com/WilsonChowdhry

#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence   

Unsafe Homes, Generous Aid Abroad: The Scottish RAAC Scandal

Swinney expressed willingness on STV to meet RAAC homeowners — but still evades engagement.

By Wilson Chowdhry

RAAC Homeowners Face Bankruptcy While Scotland Funds Africa

As a UK citizen of ethnic origin, I understand the importance of building a fair and balanced world. Foreign aid — whether financial, humanitarian, or developmental — exists to help people overcome poverty, disasters, and conflict, and to strengthen global security and economic ties. These are noble goals. But fairness and responsibility also begin at home. In Scotland today, thousands of RAAC homeowners are facing bankruptcy, homelessness, and unimaginable stress through no fault of their own, left to shoulder the costs of government and council failures while ministers focus on grandstanding abroad.

In a recent session of the Scottish Parliament’s Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee, Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Mairi McAllan MSP, confirmed that there will be no dedicated Scottish Government fund to support councils or homeowners affected by RAAC. Despite months of lobbying, residents were told bluntly that RAAC is “a building standards issue” and “a homeowners’ matter.” This denial of assistance leaves families to shoulder the full cost of remediation, demolition, or rehousing while continuing to pay mortgages on uninhabitable homes.

This is more than a financial crisis — it is a crisis of fairness and accountability. Many homeowners acquired their properties under the Right to Buy scheme, unaware that the roofs and walls were built with defective RAAC. Councils and housing associations, knowing the material’s vulnerabilities, failed to warn residents. Now, Scottish homeowners are being treated as if they live under a feudal system, expected to absorb the cost of what is clearly a systemic construction and regulatory failure.

Homes Collapse as Ministers Prioritize Overseas Spending

Meanwhile, the Scottish Government continues to spend increasesd public money abroad. John Swinney, Scotland’s First Minister, recently toured Zambia and Malawi to promote foreign aid and gender equality, touting Scotland’s role as a “good global citizen.” Yet at home, the government refuses to create a national RAAC fund, leaving residents in Aberdeen, Clackmannanshire, Stirling, North Lanarkshire, and beyond in financial and emotional ruin. If the UK Government can reduce its foreign aid, why does the Scottish Government feel justified in increasing theirs while abandoning its own citizens?

The denial of support is further compounded by bureaucratic failings. Residents have repeatedly requested private meetings with the First Minister to discuss urgent action, yet progress has been stalled by red tape. Recently, the Housing Minister responded to a request to meet with Scottish RAAC homeowners, but has sought to control the structure and conduct of the meeting, despite clear calls from campaigners for serious engagement rather than photo opportunities or political grandstanding. Local campaigners insist on leading the discussions, choosing which politicians attend, and keeping the focus squarely on real solutions, not optics. Even John Swinney himself stated he was “happy to meet with individuals” when questioned by STV (click here to view) about meeting homeowners, yet he continues to avoid meaningful engagement, failing to respond to numerous open letters — many of which have been published on my blog. I have written an additional open letter to the First Minister and Housing Minister (click here) requesting a private meeting, supplementing the public meetings already scheduled for November and December.

This crisis is systemic. Decades of decisions, corporate lobbying, and regulatory failures allowed RAAC to proliferate in Scottish housing stock. Councils placed RAAC in public homes as a cost-saving measure. Research and promotion by construction firms and political figures encouraged its adoption. Safety reviews excluded Scottish properties. And yet, today, homeowners are blamed for a structural defect they could not have anticipated.

In England, RAAC homeowners have already received fair treatment. In Scotland, however, thousands remain trapped in financial limbo — paying mortgages on unsafe properties, renting temporary accommodation, and watching their homes deteriorate. In a recent statement to the Scottish Parliament, Housing Minister Mairi McAllan made it clear that there will be no dedicated Scottish Government fund to support homeowners affected by RAAC, calling it “a homeowners’ issue” and suggesting responsibility lies with the UK Government. While she is correct that RAAC origins predate devolution and stem from UK-era housing policies like Right to Buy, this cannot justify the Scottish Government’s abdication of responsibility. Housing safety and local government oversight are devolved matters, and it is within the Scottish Government’s remit to protect citizens from structural risk. Scottish taxpayers have contributed to the public purse for decades, often paying taxes and refraining from claiming benefits they might otherwise be entitled to, and this should make them a priority over foreign aid commitments. Yet homeowners, denied access to certain benefits because they own property with equity, are now facing the loss of their homes, forced to pay for costly remedial work with little or no support, or offered only a token sum.

As a member of an ethnic minority in the UK, I understand deeply the value of supporting the vulnerable globally. But this understanding does not excuse ignoring the urgent needs of our own citizens, who have built, contributed to, and sustained their communities. Charity must start at home. Scotland’s RAAC homeowners deserve recognition, support, and immediate action — a fair, funded, and coordinated solution that prevents families from being ruined by no fault of their own.

The UK RAAC Campaign Group is calling for:

• A dedicated Scottish and UK RAAC fund to protect homeowners;

• Immediate rehousing support for displaced residents;

• Funding for surveys, remediation, and stabilization;

• A Public Inquiry into decades of government and regulatory failures;

• Transparent communication channels to restore trust between residents and authorities.

Until such measures are implemented, thousands of Scottish families remain trapped in unsafe homes, paying for structural failures they never caused, while ministers grandstand abroad. This is not charity — it is neglect. It is time the Scottish Government put its own citizens first.

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PETITION (CLICK HERE)  OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION: (CLICK HERE)

📧 Email: wilson@aasecurity.co.uk
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#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence  

RAAC Protest in Renfrewshire Gains Media Attention as Campaigners Demand Action

IMAGE: Protesters raise their fists in solidarity, demanding justice and fair treatment for RAAC-affected homeowners.

Renfrewshire Stands Up Against RAAC Negligence

The first-ever RAAC protest in Renfrewshire took place outside Renfrewshire Council offices on Saturday, 11th October 2025, as homeowners and campaigners demanded urgent government action, transparency, and fairness. Organised by the UK RAAC Campaign Group, the protest drew national media attention through STV News and highlighted the deepening crisis faced by residents affected by dangerous RAAC-constructed homes.

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A small but determined group of campaigners gathered outside Renfrewshire Council offices to protest against the ongoing lack of government engagement and transparency surrounding Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in local homes.

Around ten people attended the demonstration, including Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, who organised the event; Hannah Chowdhry, Co-Deputy Chair; and Jodie Hillcoat, Chair of the Renfrewshire RAAC Campaign Group. Despite the modest turnout, the protest marked an important milestone — the first demonstration held in Renfrewshire for RAAC-affected homeowners.

Mr Chowdhry had invited STV to cover the event exclusively, and the broadcaster responded with a feature news segment that combined footage from the Renfrewshire protest with coverage of another demonstration held on the same day in Aberdeen. The national coverage helped highlight the growing frustration among Scottish homeowners who have been left without clear communication, support, or financial assurance regarding the safety of their RAAC-affected homes.

STV's Laura Perry filmed the protest for the 6pm News.

The protest centred on the lack of consultation by Bridgewater Housing Association and Linstone Housing Association, both of which are moving ahead with large-scale roof replacement works without engaging with residents. In total, over 329 households in Erskine and Linwood are directly affected, yet many remain uninformed about inspection findings, project timelines, or potential costs.

For many affected residents, the situation is especially distressing because they purchased their homes directly from the housing associations, often believing they were investing in secure, affordable ownership. Now, those same organisations act as both the developer responsible for the original construction defects and the commercial entity seeking to recoup repair costs — leaving homeowners trapped in a conflict of interest. Without government intervention, residents fear they will be unfairly burdened by costs and left at the mercy of biased housing associations prioritising financial recovery over fairness.

VIDEO: Protesters raised their voices with slogans, demanding a fair deal and proper treatment for their RAAC-affected homes.

Speaking at the event, Mr Chowdhry called for greater transparency, accountability, and direct engagement from both local and national government. He has since written to First Minister John Swinney and Housing Minister Màiri McAllan, requesting a public meeting with affected homeowners in Renfrewshire to discuss safety, funding, and fair treatment.

“This is a crucial moment to protect resident safety and restore public trust,” Mr Chowdhry said. “RAAC-affected families deserve honesty, support, and a seat at the table. The government must now show leadership and meet directly with those whose lives have been turned upside down by this crisis.”

Jodie Hillcoat, who has been representing Renfrewshire homeowners since the issue emerged earlier this year, described the ongoing situation as “devastating” for many families:

“People are living in constant fear and uncertainty,” Ms Hillcoat said. “They don’t know if their homes are safe, what the future holds, or how they will cope if massive repair bills are passed on to them. Many bought their homes in good faith from housing associations that are now treating them like customers instead of victims. It’s heartbreaking to see entire communities suffering while those in power refuse to listen or even meet with us. We need compassion, answers, and real action — not silence.”

The Renfrewshire protest follows growing national momentum across Scotland as more communities discover that their homes contain RAAC — a lightweight concrete material used in mid-20th century construction that is now known to degrade dangerously over time.

Future protests are already being planned, with further demonstrations expected outside Bridgewater and Linstone Housing Associations in the coming weeks.

Residents and supporters are encouraged to sign the official petitions demanding urgent government action on RAAC:

• Scottish Parliament petition: https://petitions.parliament.scot/petitions/PE2113

• UK Parliament petition: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/730731

Campaigners hope that by continuing to raise awareness — both on the streets and in the media — they can finally secure the justice, safety, and transparency that every affected homeowner deserves.

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PETITION (CLICK HERE)  OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION: (CLICK HERE)

📧 Email: wilson@aasecurity.co.uk
📢 Twitter/X: https://x.com/WilsonChowdhry

#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence  

RAAC Negligence Exposed: Renfrewshire Campaigners Call for Accountability

IMAGE: RAAC campaigners rallying outside the Scottish Parliament during a previous protest.

Residents in Renfrewshire are facing growing concerns over RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) and urgent roof replacement works in their homes. Recent updates from Bridgewater Housing Association and Linstone Housing Association reveal a lack of consultation and transparency, leaving hundreds of households uncertain about safety and costs.  Read more (here).

329 Homes at Risk: Renfrewshire RAAC Protest Set for 11th October

In Erskine, around 264 properties managed by Bridgewater Housing Association are affected. Bridgewater has confirmed it will proceed with roof replacement works using an approved supplier without consulting residents or property owners. Despite repeated requests, tenants and owners remain in the dark about the scope, timing, and potential impacts of the works. Meanwhile, the local council and government appear to have washed their hands of the issue, leaving residents at the mercy of the housing association, whose priorities conflict with providing a fair and transparent outcome.

Similarly, in Linwood, Linstone Housing Association has announced plans to go out to tender for roof works on 65 RAAC-affected properties, again without prior consultation with residents or owners.

Residents have voiced serious concerns over:

• Full disclosure of RAAC inspection findings and safety assessments.

• Proper consultation before contractual or financial commitments, including exploring more affordable solutions like ReGrid, which is being used nationally for similar infrastructure issues.

• Clarity on potential costs for homeowners and timelines for works.

• Desire for a public meeting involving council representatives, local politicians from central and local government, housing associations, and residents.

Currently, 329 households in Erskine and numerous others in Linwood are left without reassurance regarding the safety of their homes or the implications of upcoming works.

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Campaigners Take Action

Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, is working closely with the leader of the RAAC Campaign Group in Renfrewshire [known as Jodie] to bring attention to these issues. They have written to Housing Minister Mairi McAllan, formally requesting a meeting to discuss urgent safety concerns and engagement with affected residents.

In addition, Mr Chowdhry has organised the first-ever protest in Renfrewshire for RAAC homeowners, which has been approved by both the police and Renfrewshire Council:

Date: Saturday, 11th October 2025
Time: 10:30 am
Location: Renfrewshire Council HQ, Cotton St, Paisley PA1 1EG

This protest has arisen because homeowners have struggled to get any media attention on their plight. Mr Chowdhry has confirmed that two further protests will be held, each targeting one of the housing associations, to continue pressing for accountability and engagement.

Local residents and supporters are invited to stand in solidarity and sign the official petitions calling on the Scottish and UK Governments to take urgent action on RAAC:

• Scottish Parliament petition: https://petitions.parliament.scot/petitions/PE2113

• UK Parliament petition: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/730731

Mr Chowdhry emphasises that this is a crucial moment to protect resident safety, restore transparency, and demand accountability. He is urging communities to stand together and insist on a voice in decisions that directly affect their homes and families.

To help drive action, Mr Chowdhry has written to First Minister John Swinney and Housing Minister Màiri McAllan, requesting a public meeting with affected homeowners in Renfrewshire. He insists that the Scottish Government must now show leadership, accept responsibility, and engage directly with those whose lives have been disrupted by RAAC.

Stand with us. Stand for safety. Stand against RAAC negligence.

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT PETITION (CLICK HERE)  OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION: (CLICK HERE)

📧 Email: wilson@aasecurity.co.uk
📢 Twitter/X: https://x.com/WilsonChowdhry

#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence