Fife Shows Compassion, Clackmannanshire Demands £30,000, and Holyrood Delays: Scotland’s RAAC Homeowners Deserve Better

IMAGE: Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, leading a demonstration outside Clackmannanshire Council’s Kilncraigs building to demand justice for RAAC-affected homeowners.

Six weeks after an email from the Scottish Housing Minister’s office offered a long-awaited meeting, Tillicoultry’s RAAC homeowners are still waiting for answers.

On 1 October 2025, Emily Hornsey, Assistant Private Secretary to Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan MSP, wrote to Lynsey McQuater, Chair of the Tillicoultry RAAC Campaign Group, confirming that Ms McAllan was available to meet residents on 19 November in Clackmannanshire. The message seemed to promise progress at last for the hundreds of homeowners displaced and financially devastated by the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in their homes.

"Good afternoon

 

With sincere apologies for the delay, I am following up on your request to meet with the Cabinet Secretary to discuss RAAC in private housing. The Cabinet Secretary would be able to meet with you in Clackmannanshire on the morning of Wednesday 19 November if agreeable. I have copied in our officials from the RAAC team who will be able to liaise further with you on the logistics of this meeting.

 

Kind regards,

Emily

 

Emily Hornsey

Assistant Private Secretary to Màiri McAllan MSP | Cabinet Secretary for Housing"

Yet, with less than two weeks remaining, no time or venue has been set, and repeated requests for information from campaigners have gone unanswered.

For Tillicoultry’s homeowners — many of whom have been out of their homes for over two years, still paying both mortgages and rent, and watching their properties deteriorate — this latest delay is more than bureaucratic frustration; it’s a symbol of political indifference.

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Government Apathy Meets Local Injustice

While Clackmannanshire Council continues to press forward with a controversial roof replacement project costing residents over £30,000 plus VAT, the Scottish Government has made it clear that no dedicated funding will be provided for RAAC-affected homes.

In a recent Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee session, Cabinet Secretary Màiri McAllan MSP ruled out any Scottish Government fund to assist councils or homeowners. Responding to Fulton McGregor MSP (Coatbridge and Chryston), she described RAAC as “a building standards issue” rather than a safety or public funding matter.

“RAAC is a product which, when maintained properly, can remain usable and safe,” McAllan said.
“It is still used in countries throughout the world… but public money simply cannot stretch to that scale.”

“The position on funding in respect of RAAC is that it is a homeowners’ issue — essentially a matter of building maintenance.” 

“There will be no RAAC pot of money from the Scottish Government. The only government across the United Kingdom that has flexibility to respond to unforeseen expenditure of this kind is the UK Government, which is why I am pressing them to create a national RAAC fund.”

Her words landed hard on the hundreds of displaced families now facing financial ruin, many of whom are trapped paying both rent and mortgages for homes they cannot access.

Meanwhile, a letter from Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander MP to Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, dated 5 November 2025, shifted responsibility firmly back to Holyrood:

“The powers of the UK Government to act are limited, given that housing is a devolved issue. The Barnett Formula ensures that any additional funding allocated in England for specific purposes, such as the repair of buildings affected by RAAC, will result in consequential funding for the Scottish Government. We would expect the Scottish Government to allocate the necessary resources to address the concerns of those affected by RAAC.”

This political tennis match — where responsibility bounces between Edinburgh and Westminster — has left homeowners in despair, with no relief in sight and mounting financial pressure as Clackmannanshire pushes forward with unaffordable roof replacement schemes.

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A Tale of Two Councils: Compassion in Fife, Crisis in Clackmannanshire

In Clackmannanshire, the council clings rigidly to its Scheme of Assistance Strategy, which offers only advice — no grants, no loans, and no financial relief. This stands in stark contrast to the authority granted under Section 71 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006, which empowers councils to provide direct support in emergencies.

By comparison, Fife Council has shown what real leadership looks like. After public outrage over plans to charge homeowners up to £19,000 each for roof repairs in Kirkcaldy’s Ravenscraig flats, Fife revised its proposals and capped contributions at £7,000 per household.

Housing spokesperson Cllr Judy Hamilton said it best:

“A contribution of £19,000 is simply unaffordable for many homeowners… I asked officers to examine every possible way to reduce this burden. I’m pleased to confirm that the contribution has now been capped at £7,000 per household.”

That decision, reported by Allan Crow in the Fife Free Press (4 November 2025), demonstrated compassion and creativity — qualities painfully absent in Clackmannanshire’s approach.

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Homeowners’ Voices: Desperation and Disbelief

Almost a year before the Scottish Government’s decision to use the Affordable Homes Fund to support homeowners in Aberdeen, Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, had already raised the issue directly with the former Housing Minister, the First Minister, and numerous local authorities, including through deputations across the country. At the time it appears there was simply no appetite for such a solution. In his most recent letter (3rd November 2025) to Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan MSP and to Kevin Wells, Strategic Director: Place at Clackmannanshire Council, he reiterated this proposal — seeking fair compensation for RAAC homeowners and the creation of an energy-efficient new-build project that would benefit both residents and the council. Despite the clear precedent and potential benefits, no response was received.

Despite the clear precedent and potential benefits, no response has been received. 

This lack of action has left homeowners trapped in a dire situation. Fiona Crichton, a Clackmannanshire homeowner and Secretary of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, shared her frustration:

“I’m shocked and saddened to learn that Clackmannanshire Council aren’t securing grant funding that could be available to them. Fife Council have shown what’s possible — there, owners are able to pay just £7,000 with a £116 per month interest-free loan. If we could secure this kind of option, it would get us out of the nightmare we’ve been living.”

She added:

“I haven’t been able to get into my flat for over two years. If I want to get it fixed, I’m being hit with massive bills of over £30,000. It’s simply unaffordable for any normal person with a family to support. Getting a similar solution to Fife’s would be the break we desperately need.”

The combination of government inaction, council rigidity, and astronomical costs continues to leave families in limbo, financially strained, and emotionally exhausted — highlighting the urgent need for practical intervention and fair financial solutions.Wilson Chowdhry: “A Systemic Failure of Compassion”

Wilson Chowdhry, who has been at the forefront of the UK RAAC campaign, condemned both governments for their lack of urgency and empathy:

“The Scottish Government’s stance that RAAC is a mere ‘building maintenance issue’ completely disregards the reality faced by hundreds of displaced homeowners. You cannot ‘maintain’ a crumbling material that engineers have long since deemed unsafe. This is not about neglectful owners — it’s about systemic failure.”

He went on to criticise the government’s failure to even organise the promised meeting:

“It is shocking that, despite months of requests, the Cabinet Secretary’s team has failed to confirm the time and place of a meeting that could determine the future of so many Scottish families. This neglect sends a painful message — that ordinary people suffering through no fault of their own are simply not a priority.”

On the actions of Clackmannanshire Council, Chowdhry was equally forthright:

“Families are being asked to pay £30,000 or more for roof replacements — sums that would bankrupt even the most prudent homeowner. For many, the only way out will be forced sales under unfair voluntary acquisition schemes, amounting to nothing less than financial expropriation.”

He drew a sharp contrast with the actions of Fife Council:

“Fife Council has shown that compassion and common sense can coexist. Their decision to cap homeowner costs at £7,000 demonstrates real civic leadership. Meanwhile, Clackmannanshire Council’s obstinate refusal to explore similar options is a betrayal of the very residents they are meant to protect.”

And finally, he summed up the moral and political crisis facing Scotland’s RAAC victims:

“We are watching a two-tier Scotland emerge — one where residents in Fife receive support and dignity, while those in Clackmannanshire are left destitute. The moral disparity is staggering. RAAC is not just a technical issue — it’s a humanitarian one. Behind every crumbling roof is a broken family. It’s time our leaders treated this crisis with the urgency and empathy it deserves.”

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A Growing Sense of Betrayal

The ongoing silence from the Scottish Government, coupled with the inaction of local authorities like Clackmannanshire, is fuelling growing anger across affected communities. Homeowners are being financially and emotionally drained while politicians trade responsibility and delay decisions.

Fife has proven that solutions are possible — if there is political will. For Tillicoultry’s homeowners, hope is running out fast.

As Wilson Chowdhry concluded:

“When the Cabinet Secretary finally meets with residents — if she does — she must come prepared not with sympathy, but with solutions. Empty apologies and bureaucratic platitudes will no longer suffice.”

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)

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Clackmannanshire RAAC Homeowners Deserve a Fair Deal – Time for the Scottish Government and Council to Act

IMAGE: Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, leading a demonstration outside Clackmannanshire Council’s Kilncraigs building to demand justice for RAAC-affected homeowners.

By Wilson Chowdhry

2 November 2025

I have today sent a new open letter to Màiri McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Housing, the First Minister, and Clackmannanshire Council, calling on them to work collaboratively to secure a fair and permanent solution for homeowners in Tillicoultry affected by RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete).

The letter follows the recent precedent set in Aberdeen, where the Scottish Government allowed flexibility under the Affordable Homes Fund, enabling affected homeowners to receive fixed payments closer to pre-RAAC market values. While the Aberdeen solution is not perfect — homeowners there lost their home-loss grant — it demonstrates that ministerial flexibility, combined with determined local advocacy, can deliver justice.

Clackmannanshire already has access to the Affordable Homes Budget through the Council and local Registered Social Landlords (RSLs), as part of the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP). This budget is designed to increase the supply of safe, modern, and affordable housing through new builds, acquisitions, and innovative housing projects.

I am aware that the Council previously submitted an application under this fund in June 2024, which was rejected. However, the circumstances have now changed. Since January 2024, I have actively promoted the use of this fund through blog posts, deputations to West Lothian and Aberdeen City Councils, private meetings with senior officers at Aberdeen City Council and Clackmannanshire Council, and letters to the former Housing Minister — long before MSP Liam Kerr proposed an alternative fund that ultimately failed, and before Màiri McAllan introduced the current flexibility. At that time, there was limited appetite for such a solution. The Aberdeen precedent now provides a clear opening for Clackmannanshire to take action.

The letter highlights that RAAC roofs in Tillicoultry have shown no further deterioration since evacuation, suggesting that earlier decisions may have been an overreaction. This makes it even more critical that any future funding is used to deliver a lasting, safe, and energy-efficient rebuild rather than temporary remedial works.

Importantly, I have urged the Housing Minister that any financial flexibility granted to Clackmannanshire must come with a caveat ensuring a fair deal for homeowners. Any application that does not explicitly provide for this should not receive funding. Homeowners have already endured nearly two years of financial hardship, paying both mortgages and rent, and it is the moral responsibility of both the Council and the Government to act decisively.

Finally, I expressed my disappointment that the Housing Minister has failed to respond to my last four letters on this matter. Continued silence risks prolonging the injustice experienced by Tillicoultry homeowners, and urgent engagement is now required to achieve a fair outcome.

This is a critical moment. Clackmannanshire has the tools, precedent, and funding framework to deliver justice, safety, and dignity for RAAC-affected homeowners — it is now up to the Council and the Scottish Government to act with urgency.   You can read the full letter (here).

Wilson Chowdhry
Chairman, UK RAAC Campaign Group

Clackmannanshire Residents Rally Against RAAC Delays: Plans for Protest at Scottish Parliament

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

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS  FOR UK GOVERNMENT (CLICK HERE) and OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT (CLICK HERE)

On Saturday, 17th August, residents of homes evacuated due to the presence of dangerous Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in their roofs convened at The Crossed Peels in Stirling to discuss the next steps in their campaign. The meeting followed the news that the Clackmannanshire Council's report on decisions related to affected RAAC estates, initially expected on 29th August, had been postponed.

Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, briefed attendees on his recent conversation with Wilson Lees, the Homelessness and Supporting People Manager at Clackmannanshire Council. During their discussion, Mr. Lees explained that officers would continue to pursue pre-RAAC-declaration valuations in voluntary agreements for owners of private homes evacuated due to RAAC, which provided a morale boost for the residents.   However, he did iterate that the final decision rests with the council. Additionally, Mr. Lees agreed to expedite a Special Meeting for the report as soon as it was ready, to avoid a three-month delay that would result from the council’s quarterly meeting schedule. This was seen as a positive development, especially since Aberdeen City Council had announced that it would be valuing homes under current market value in a report for their Full Council Meeting on 21st September.

Mr Lees, said:

"I can only reiterate that all decisions relating to potential purchase of the affected properties rest exclusively with the Council's elected members who will make their decision based upon the information presented to them and after consideration of the recommendation presented by officers. 

I am not in a position to second guess what that outcome will be, nor make any statements that would bind or commit the Council.

Purchase from the owners at pre-RAAC discovery values is one of the options that Council may consider. However, elected members must take account of the needs of the community/rent payers and act in their best interests. They will be required to consider which option represents best value."

A follow-up meeting between Clackmannanshire Council officers, homeowners, and Mr. Chowdhry was scheduled for 22nd August. The primary focus of this meeting was to ensure that homeowners understood the report's context and were not unduly alarmed by references to compulsory orders. These orders, if pursued, would lead to lower valuations and additional costs for homeowners who declined voluntary agreements, as stipulated by the Building (Scotland) Act 2003.

Residents expressed concerns over the delayed report, to which Mr. Chowdhry explained that the council’s limited resources and the scarcity of contractors capable of RAAC-related work in Scotland placed them at a disadvantage. Larger councils with more significant RAAC issues were being prioritized by contractors due to their higher payment capacity. Mr. Chowdhry reiterated his request for Mr. Lees to expedite the special meeting once the report is finalized.

During the whatsApp conversation, Mr. Chowdhry was advised by Mr Lees that Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable for compensation related to the losses homeowners have incurred. Many residents are facing the dual financial burden of paying mortgages and rent, along with removal and storage costs. This position was confirmed through a Freedom of Information request submitted by Mr. Chowdhry during a Teams meeting with three senior officers, which stated: "Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable to pay compensation relating to the relevant accommodation. Should affected homeowners believe the Council is liable for financial loss they are entitled to seek legal advice on the matter."  Read full response to FOI request at end of post.  

However, Mr. Chowdhry was provided with contact details for the District Valuer's office to inquire whether they would consider including the value of a new Wren Kitchen in the property valuation. The kitchen was installed two years ago, and the owner will still be paying it off for the next two years.

Residents were also awaiting a final, and hopefully accompanied, re-entry into their properties to retrieve their possessions. Mr. Lees confirmed that a date would soon be provided and that the status of access for homeowners would be finalized shortly. While Mr. Chowdhry was informed that it was highly unlikely fitted cupboards could be recovered, he expressed hope that appliances might still be salvageable. Additionally, Mr. Chowdhry received a response to his open letter addressed to the Chief Executive and Leader of the Council, which largely reinforced the points discussed above. You can read that letter (here).

Mr. Chowdhry reminded residents of the ongoing Scottish Parliament petition, which has garnered 999 signatures, calling for a national budget to address RAAC-related issues across the 13 affected Councils and Housing Associations in Scotland. Lynsey McQuater informed the group that she and others had been distributing flyers and posters in shops and community centers to rally broader support. Additionally, some members were contacting local community councils to propose motions in support of the petition. A national budget would enable Scottish councils to cover additional costs and offer fairer valuations for affected homes.

Mr. Chowdhry proposed holding a protest outside Clackmannanshire's headquarters on the day the report is presented to the full council, and it was unanimously agreed to proceed once the date is announced. In collaboration with Lynsey McQuater, Mr. Chowdhry drafted and submitted a public petition via Clackmannanshire Council's online portal. Today, Gillian White from the Council's Committee Services Team confirmed receipt of the petition. She stated, "The Council has received your request to place an on-line petition on the Council's website for "A fair deal for Tillicoultry Homeowners faced with RAAC Crises".  The Petition  is currently under review by the Council's Monitoring Officer and we will let you know the outcome of the review and whether or not the petition can be published on the website to allow the required number of signatures to be gathered."  Read more about Aberdeen City Council's report (here).

Finally, Mr. Chowdhry proposed organizing a protest outside the Scottish Parliament on its first day back after recess. The group agreed to hold the protest at 2 pm on Monday, 2nd September. Other groups have already been contacted to galvanize wider support, and the Torry Community RAAC Campaign has agreed to post details of the protest on their Facebook page as will A Fair Deal for Homeowners in Deans South.

Quote from Wilson Chowdhry:

"The approach taken by Clackmannanshire Council, potentially offering pre-RAAC-declaration valuations, represents a crucial step in mitigating the financial hardship faced by homeowners affected by RAAC issues. This approach acknowledges the investments made by property owners before the problem was identified and aims to provide fair compensation based on these prior values.

In stark contrast, Aberdeen City Council's consideration of current market values is concerning. This method, which often results in valuations below the original purchase prices, risks creating negative equity for homeowners and their mortgage providers. This could leave many in precarious financial situations with no national support scheme to fall back on.

Given these disparities, it is imperative that we rally more support from the wider community. The plight of these homeowners is urgent, and broader public awareness and support can help drive the necessary changes and advocate for more equitable solutions."

— Wilson Chowdhry

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The full FOI response to Mr Chowdhry's FOI request can be read here:

Dear Mr Chowdhry,

Thank you for your information request dated Tuesday 4th June 2024.

I am happy to supply you with the information you requested. 

Q1. Voluntary Purchase and Evaluation: Wilson Lee has informed Grant Kerr that the council intends to offer a voluntary purchase of properties and that a desktop evaluation will assess the value of homes from before the October evacuations. We request this information in writing to understand the terms and process involved.

A1 - As per our meeting of 7th June 2024, voluntary purchase is one option that may be progressed however, the decision on matters such as this are reserved to the elected officials of the Council at a full meeting of the Council. Officers will make recommendations in a paper to Council in due course. At this time no methodology has been established to determine what might constitute an appropriate offer. 

Q2. Compensation for Expenses: Will the council compensate homeowners for any expenses incurred, including temporary accommodation rents, mortgage payments for empty properties, and utility costs where the council failed to act responsibly by switching off these utilities?

A2.   Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable to pay compensation relating to the relevant accommodation. Should affected homeowners believe the Council is liable for financial loss they are entitled to seek legal advice on the matter. 

Q3. Recompense for Renovations: Will homeowners be offered any recompense for the significant investments made in home renovations? Many have poured their life savings into these properties, only to face displacement due to RAAC concerns.

A3.   Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable to pay compensation relating to the relevant accommodation. Should affected homeowners believe the Council is liable for financial loss they are entitled to seek legal advice on the matter. 

Q4. Lack of Written Records: We are deeply concerned that the council has not documented the details of the two public meetings held, which is a blatant lack of transparency.

A4. The two meeting which have taken place were open only to the affected owners, they were not public meetings. Owing to the Council's limited resources it is unable to officially minute every meeting, though, of course, homeowners were free to take their own notes. The meetings were attended by senior officers of the Council and an elected official who provided information to homeowners on a range of issues and fielded a number of questions which were answered candidly The Council believes it has been open and transparent in its communication with homeowners.

Q5. Access to Properties: Homeowners were abruptly evacuated with minimal notice, and access to their properties for retrieving personal belongings, some of which are very sentimental, has been severely restricted. We demand clarity on when and how homeowners will be able to access their properties and retrieve their belongings, along with appropriate compensation for any losses incurred.

A5 - Steps are being taken to facilitate re-entry to the affected buildings to carry out a final recovery attempt of belongings. Homeowners are being kept abreast of developments. As above, Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable to pay compensation relating to the evacuation of the relevant accommodation.   The Council has no obligation to recover homeowner belongings yet it has done so on two previous occasions without recharge to the homeowners.

Q6. Lack of Pre-Advisory: Homeowners were left uninformed about the presence of RAAC in their properties before purchase, and the need for regular inspections was not communicated. This negligence is unacceptable and has put residents at risk.

A6.   This is a statement rather than a question and no response will be offered.

Q7. Neglect of Property Maintenance: Why were these properties neglected while under the council's management as property factors, especially considering their construction with RAAC and other substandard materials? Despite reports of issues like water ingress causing significant damage, the council failed to respond adequately, allowing buildings to deteriorate into hazardous conditions. Contradictorily, a report by Harley Haddow asserts that RAAC panels have been in place for over 50 years without recorded failures, raising questions about the accuracy and reliability of assessments.

A7.  The Council denies the allegation of neglect. Responsibility for the maintenance of the buildings was shared equally by all owners and not the sole responsibility of Clackmannanshire Council. Should the affected owners believe the Council is liable for financial loss they are entitled to seek legal advice on the matter. 

Q8. Plans for New Development: Was there always a predetermined agenda to construct new homes on this land, thereby neglecting the maintenance of existing buildings? We have received information indicating the existence of plans for a larger, more ambitious development on the site. Can you confirm the veracity of these plans? We demand a clear record stating that there were no prior intentions to rebuild over the remnants of our homes. It must be explicitly stated that the aesthetics of our properties and potential financial gains did not influence the decision to demolish.

A8. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) represents the Council's approved affordable housing development plan and forms the basis of investment discussions with the Scottish Government. I attach links to SHIPs covering the timeframe from 2007 to 2027 https://www.clacks.gov.uk/site/documents/housing/strategichousinginvestmentplan/
The RAAC evacuated blocks are not identified within these documents as locations where the Council has considered development works. 

Q9. Awareness of Short Lifespan: Was the council aware of the limited lifespan of RAAC before selling properties to unsuspecting homeowners under the Right-to-Buy scheme? If so, why were these properties still sold? Was this a deliberate attempt to shift liability onto unaware buyers, under the guise of promoting equitable housing? It appears that homeowners were misled into believing that their purchases would result in lifetime investments and the creation of legacies for their descendants. Do you acknowledge that the Right-to-Buy scheme has ultimately failed, leaving homeowners vulnerable to unforeseen risks and financial burdens?

A9. Clackmannanshire Council does not consider itself liable in relation to the Right to Buy Scheme relevant to this accommodation. 

Q10. Excessive Costings: Residents were shocked by the excessively high cost estimate for roof replacement provided during a public meeting organized by the council on15th November 2013. We demand transparency on how these figures were calculated and whether alternative assessments were sought.

A10. The Council is seeking costs from its appointed roofing contractor. As has 
previously been intimated to homeowners, the information will be shared with them when it becomes available.

Q11. Insensitivity and Lack of Communication: The council's actions have been very insensitive. We understand that these properties were evacuated on safety grounds, but until homeowners are compensated or their properties are repaired and returned to the, the buildings still belong to them. They should have been contacted before any shutters or boards were placed on to their properties and windows removed. It feels as though the council is acting without regard for the hurt and anguish, they are causing to homeowners.
Communication with the council has been difficult, especially for one local resident, who has experienced the following issues:
• Requests for information are often ignored.
• Follow-up requests are disputed as constituting a request for information.
• FOI requests go unanswered.
• Review FOI requests are also ignored.
• Reports to the Scottish Information Commissioner result in adjudications that the council must supply information.
• The council eventually supplies incomplete and heavily redacted information.
• Further reports to the Scottish Information Commissioner are required to adjudicate on the redactions.

A11.   This is a statement rather than a question and no response will be offered.

Further questions asked during the time of meeting with Mr Chowdhry (on 7th June 2024) were agreed to be answered as part of this Freedom of Information Request: 
Following a recent online meeting between Council Officers and Mr Chowdhry officers agreed to investigate whether or not it was their duty to inform residents of the Council de-registering as property factors and to include this information in the FOI response. I can confirm that we do not believe there to be any requirement for notification of de-registration to be provided in writing however we do accept that it may have been beneficial to have notified residents in writing of this change. 
Mr. Chowdhry sought confirmation that evidence being redacted or not found was not intentionally being excluded to protect the council, but rather for legal reasons related to privacy of information. I can confirm that redactions were made only for reasons relating to privacy of information.


If you are not satisfied with this response, you may contact the Council's Legal and Governance Senior Manager seeking a review of your request within 40 working days of receiving the response (the address is: Clackmannanshire Council, Kilncraigs, Alloa, FK10 1EB, or reply to this email.  If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the review, you have the right to appeal directly to the Scottish Information Commissioner, Kilnburn Castle, Doubledykes Road, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9DS, or online WWW.itspublicknowledge.info/Appeal within 6 months.

Yours sincerely,


Pearl McMenemy
Monitoring Officer
Clackmannanshire Council

Residents of Tillicoultry Endure Ongoing Anguish Amid RAAC Crisis and Communication Failures by Clackmannanshire Council

PLEASE JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE

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Tillicoultry, Scotland — Residents of Tillicoultry, especially those from Park Street, are facing significant distress due to the ongoing RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) crisis and a troubling lack of communication from Clackmannanshire Council. Following a recent story in the Alloa Advertiser (click here), several tenants of former council homes have reached out to Mr. Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, enabling him to gather and address the broader issues affecting council tenants.

A former resident of Park Street shares a poignant account of the upheaval experienced since the evacuation due to the presence of RAAC in the flats. Following the evacuation, Lisa-Jane  Simpson and her 16-year-old son were initially placed in a homeless flat in Clackmannan and have since been residing in a temporary flat in Alva since December 2023.

"The temporary flat in Alva has become a semblance of stability for us, and I fervently hope it becomes our permanent tenancy. The thought of another upheaval is unbearable, especially for my son, who faced severe mental health challenges when we had to leave our home in October 2023," Mrs Simpson expressed.

Since relocating to Alva, Mrs Simpson reports receiving little to no updates regarding the status of their home on Park Street. Most information is gleaned from fellow homeowners of other affected properties—Chapelle Crescent, High Street, and the resident's own block of flats—or through the Alloa Advertiser newspaper.

"I find this absolutely shocking. It feels as though I don't matter because I'm a council tenant. That flat was my home too!" Mrs Simpson emphasized.

Compounding the distress is the fate of personal belongings left behind in Park Street. Items that were meant to be placed in storage were inexplicably left behind when the resident was evacuated. These possessions, holding significant sentimental value, remain in the now-boarded-up flat, raising concerns about their condition due to the lack of air circulation.

Keith Shearer, another former resident of Park Street, shares similar frustration: "I lived at Park Street, Tillicoultry, and I would be interested in a re-entry as I have an item of personal value that was not removed because it was screwed into the wall. I have been waiting since December for Clackmannanshire Council to get back to me about having it returned."

The residents' stories highlight a broader issue affecting many Tillicoultry residents: the insufficient communication and support from Clackmannanshire Council during this crisis. The residents call for more transparency, timely updates, and a compassionate approach to their predicament.

Mr. Chowdhry has called for a more coordinated approach and improved communication between the housing team and tenants. In response, he proposed the creation of a dedicated WhatsApp group for council tenants, which the council has agreed to consider. A meeting is scheduled for today (15.07.2024) to discuss this proposal further. Additionally, the council has already agreed to include former council tenants on a list for re-entry to their properties to retrieve personal belongings. Mr. Chowdhry has also been contacted by a private tenant facing a range of issues (click here). The council has clarified that the private tenant's landlord should be the primary contact but has agreed to engage with the landlord on matters of shared responsibility and to remind them of their obligations.

Mr. Chowdhry was heartened earlier this month by the swift response from Nikki Bridle, Chief Executive of Clackmannanshire Council, to his request for accompanied re-entry and a realistic risk assessment for removing items screwed to walls. In an email dated July 4th, she stated: "Thank you for your letter dated 4 July, in connection with the above. I have asked Pete Leonard, Strategic Director, Place, to look into the matter which you have raised and to provide you with a response as soon as practicably possible. I trust that this is acceptable to you."

This sentiment was echoed by Provost Donald Balsillie of Clackmannanshire Council, who responded on July 9th with an equally supportive message: "Thank you for your e-mail concerning the above and highlighting some of the issues involved. I have great sympathy for all those affected and am in contact with our housing spokesperson Cllr Jane McTaggart to do what is possible to resolve the access to and future of the properties affected."

Mr. Chowdhry expressed his hope for a swift decision from Clackmannanshire Council to establish a WhatsApp group for council tenants, which he believes could provide some comfort to the distressed community.

"We are awaiting a decision on whether accompanied re-entry will be permitted for former residents to retrieve their valued possessions from their homes," Mr. Chowdhry stated. "There is optimism that a reassessment of risks may allow more items to be recovered by the community."

Amidst the unfolding RAAC crisis, Mr. Chowdhry emphasized the critical importance of Clackmannanshire Council addressing the needs and concerns of all affected residents. He stressed the necessity for residents to receive the information and support required to navigate this challenging period effectively.

Mark Ruskell Asked to Champion Forgotten RAAC Homeowners as Kevin Wells' Silence Deepens Anxiety

Tillicoultry RAAC Families Seek MSP Support Amid Continuing Silence from Clackmannanshire Council

RAAC campaigners call for justice before the Scottish Parliament.

Support our campaign crowdfund  (click here)  Or donate direct to the UK RAAC Campaign Group using these details: SC: 20-29-24 ACCT No: 03355349   

3 Years After Evacuation, Families Still Have No Answers

For homeowners affected by Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in Tillicoultry, the crisis did not end when they were forced from their homes.

It did not end when properties were boarded up.

It did not end when families lost access to possessions, memories and the homes they had worked a lifetime to secure.

And it certainly has not ended now.

Nearly two years after the evacuation of RAAC-affected properties, many homeowners remain trapped in uncertainty while awaiting the outcome of a Scottish Government grant funding application that could fundamentally determine their futures.

Yet despite repeated assurances that answers are imminent, residents continue to face delay after delay.

From Regular Communication to Prolonged Silence

Earlier this year, homeowners were receiving relatively regular updates regarding efforts to secure Government funding.

Then communication began to slow.

Emails went unanswered. Requests for information were met with holding responses. Promised updates failed to materialise.

Concern grew among residents that something was wrong.

Those fears intensified when Clackmannanshire Council recently confirmed that a meeting was being arranged to discuss the status of the grant funding application and its implications for homeowners.

Many hoped that meeting would finally provide clarity.

Instead, homeowners are still waiting.

Following the meeting, residents expected an update on Tuesday 2nd May 2026. Days later, none had arrived.

Another Delay — And Another Housing Crisis

When homeowners pressed for information, Clackmannanshire Council responded by explaining that senior officers were currently focused on responding to the ongoing housing emergency in Coalsnaughton.

In a message sent by Louise Hutcheon, Personal Assistant to the Director of Place and Economy, residents were informed that:

"Senior officers are currently fully engaged in responding to the ongoing major incident at Coalsnaughton. This has understandably impacted capacity and resulted in delays to progressing and communicating this matter as quickly as we would have liked."

No homeowner disputes the seriousness of the situation facing residents in Coalsnaughton.

They deserve support, compassion and swift action.

However, many Tillicoultry residents are asking an entirely reasonable question:

Why does every new housing emergency appear to push their own crisis further down the priority list?

After years of uncertainty, residents are not demanding final agreements or completed solutions.

They simply want to know whether the Scottish Government funding application has been approved, rejected or remains under consideration.

It is becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners to understand why even that basic information cannot be shared.

Families Trapped Between Impossible Choices

The significance of the funding decision cannot be overstated.

Some homeowners sold their properties to Clackmannanshire Council after being assured that any future Government funding would be reflected in revised settlements.

Others chose to retain ownership.

Many of those residents continue paying mortgages, insurance premiums and other costs on homes they cannot occupy. They have done so because they fear that if grant funding is not forthcoming, remediation of their homes may ultimately prove a better financial outcome than selling under current arrangements.

As a result, families remain trapped between difficult choices without the information needed to make informed decisions.

Every month that passes deepens the uncertainty.

Appeal to Mark Ruskell MSP

Against this backdrop, campaigners have written an open letter to Mark Ruskell following his comments during General Questions in the Scottish Parliament.

While questioning ministers about the Coalsnaughton evacuation, Mr Ruskell referenced the earlier RAAC evacuations in Clackmannanshire and said:

"The RAAC evacuations were badly handled by the council, houses were boarded up, personal possessions were left to rot for months on end."

He also highlighted the importance of addressing the trauma experienced by evacuees.

His comments struck a chord with many Tillicoultry homeowners who feel their experiences have too often been overlooked.

In the open letter, campaigners thanked Mr Ruskell for recognising the hardship residents endured, while urging him to raise the issue once again with both the Scottish Government and Clackmannanshire Council.

The letter asks whether he is aware that homeowners are still awaiting the outcome of the funding application and seeks his support in securing greater transparency, accountability and urgency.

While public acknowledgement is welcome, homeowners now need practical assistance to ensure their plight is not forgotten amid newer crises.

Mark Ruskell MSP: Learning from RAAC Evacuations

Fresh Call for a Homeowners' Meeting

Today, further correspondence was sent to Kevin Wells, Strategic Director – Place at Clackmannanshire Council, via his Personal Assistant, Louise Hutcheon. The communication was also copied to all local councillors, ensuring that elected representatives were made fully aware of the growing frustration and anxiety being experienced by affected homeowners. 

The message expressed growing concern about the continued delays and the anxiety being experienced by affected residents.

It also highlighted the disappointment many homeowners feel that, after such a prolonged period of waiting, there is still no definitive answer regarding what should ultimately be a straightforward question: has the Scottish Government grant application been successful or not?

The correspondence recognised the seriousness of the Coalsnaughton emergency but warned that homeowners increasingly feel their own crisis is being overshadowed by newer events despite having lived with uncertainty for years.

A request was also made for a fresh meeting between homeowners, council officers and councillors, particularly those elected to represent the affected communities. Campaigners believe it is important that those elected to represent Tillicoultry residents are kept informed and encouraged to play an active role in securing answers and accountability for their constituents.

Such a meeting would allow residents to ask questions directly, receive updates and begin rebuilding confidence in a process that many feel has become increasingly opaque.

Trauma Does Not End With Evacuation

One of the most important observations made by Mark Ruskell MSP was that the trauma of evacuation extends beyond the day people leave their homes.

For Tillicoultry homeowners, that observation remains painfully true.

The boarded-up homes, the disrupted lives and the lost sense of security are only part of the story.

The continuing uncertainty is itself a form of harm.

Every delay prolongs the anxiety.

Every unanswered question deepens frustration.

Every postponed update leaves families wondering whether anyone truly understands the impact this crisis continues to have on their lives.

Time for Answers

Nobody expects Clackmannanshire Council to ignore the difficulties faced by Coalsnaughton residents.

But neither should another housing emergency become the reason why RAAC homeowners remain without answers.

The people affected by the Tillicoultry RAAC crisis have waited long enough.

If funding has been approved, homeowners deserve to know.

If funding has been refused, homeowners deserve to know.

If discussions are ongoing, homeowners deserve to know that too.

What they cannot continue to endure is a cycle of meetings followed by silence, promises followed by delays, and uncertainty without end.

The people of Tillicoultry have already paid a heavy price.

The least they deserve now is honesty, transparency and a clear path forward.

Wilson Chowdhry, Chair of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, said:

"No homeowner begrudges support being provided to residents in Coalsnaughton. We all understand the distress they are experiencing. However, families affected by RAAC in Tillicoultry have now spent years living with uncertainty and deserve answers about their own futures. The ongoing delays are becoming increasingly difficult to understand and are causing significant anxiety amongst homeowners who simply want clarity about whether Government funding will be available or not."

Lynsey Macquater, Chair of the Tillicoultry RAAC Campaign Group, said:

"Residents have been remarkably patient throughout this process, but patience is becoming increasingly difficult when there appears to be no end to the uncertainty. Homeowners need transparency and meaningful communication. We are not asking for special treatment—we are simply asking for the information that will allow families to make informed decisions about their futures."

The RAAC crisis is not just about concrete—it is about accountability.

And we are far from finished.

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

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITION  (CLICK HERE), 

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

#RAACScandal #Petition2113 #ScottishParliament #SupportRAACVictims #EndTheSilence 

Scottish Housing Minister Meets RAAC Homeowners: A Meeting Marked by Pain, Delays and a Glimmer of Progress

A long-awaited meeting between Scottish Housing Minister Mairi McAllan and RAAC-affected homeowners in Clackmannanshire took place this week at Kilncraigs. The meeting was arranged at the Minister’s behest, following a formal request from Wilson Chowdhry, Leader of the UK RAAC Campaign Group.

Also in attendance were:

• Keith Brown MSP

• Brian Leishman MP

• Matthew Elsby, Better Homes Division

• Kevin Wells, Strategic Director for Place, Clackmannanshire Council

• RAAC homeowners from Tillicoultry

• 7 local RAAC Homeowners

The meeting had been scheduled for one hour but was further shortened to 55 minutes due to the Minister’s late arrival by over 30 minutes. Because the room had been booked by another group immediately afterwards, the session could not be extended — a fact that caused frustration among already distressed homeowners.

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The Minister’s Opening: Cooperation, Frank Conversation and Limited Time

Mairi McAllan opened by stating that the goal was:

“…to speak frankly, in cooperation, and come together for solutions.”

A senior council officer echoed this tone, saying:

“We are trying to find a mutual solution while meeting council regulations and making the offers on the table as fair as possible.”

Keith Brown MSP remarked that the crisis “happened a long time ago” and he had hoped it “would have been resolved by now.”

Brian Leishman MP added that he has a strong relationship with homeowners and emphasised:

“We need a solution from the Scottish Government, as this is a devolved matter.”

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Wilson Chowdhry Sets Out the Reality: Delay, Absence of Detail and Rising Costs

After introductions, Wilson Chowdhry opened the substantive discussions. Because of the limited meeting time, he had arranged for homeowners to submit their personal accounts in writing in advance.

He raised several critical concerns:

• Lack of cost clarity from Clackmannanshire Council regarding VAT, the 5.5% interest rate on proposed loans, and the likelihood of further unforeseen costs.

• Two years of waiting with no insurance cover and little progress.

• Months of unnecessary delays without explanation.

• A forthcoming meeting with Better Homes officials, where he intends to present more technical detail.

He then moved into the first two agenda points.

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Agenda Point 1: The Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP)

Mr Chowdhry asked for an update on Clackmannanshire Council’s progress in applying for AHSP funds — a request he had already submitted directly to the Council and to the Scottish Housing Minister.

He expressed his concern that the current proposal does not meet AHSP criteria, because:

• It does not create new homes, as the programme requires.

• It lacks the necessary financial flexibility applied in Aberdeen.

• Clackmannanshire Council appears reluctant to use any of its own funds, unlike Aberdeen City Council, which contributed alongside a £10m Government grant.

Kevin Wells stated that the Council would pass through any Scottish Government funds to homeowners, but did not confirm whether the Council would use its own money to assist.

When asked how far along the AHSP application was, Wells admitted:

The proposal has not yet been submitted, though dialogue had begun.

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Mairi McAllan Reiterates: No National RAAC Remediation Fund

The Housing Minister reaffirmed that:

• There will be no national RAAC remediation fund,

• The Scottish Government does not have the financial flexibility, and

• Although housing is devolved, these homes were sold under Right to Buy, which predates devolution.

She explained that when Aberdeen City Council requested access to an unused £10m grant pot, she had to decline — but she directed them instead to the AHSP, where she had been able to create financial flexibility.

She said she hoped that “discussion around the table” could lead to a solution, but reminded homeowners they were responsible for maintenance of their properties.

Mr Chowdhry intervened firmly:

“These properties were sold with a hidden defect. Government and councils knew RAAC was dangerous by the time these homes were sold — homeowners had no warning, no information, and no protection.”

Ms McAllan did not respond directly but appeared to accept the point.

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Agenda Point 2: The Council’s Proposal — High Costs and High Risk

Kevin Wells then set out the Council’s current proposal:

• Full roof replacement, with homeowners offered either:

  • A Voluntary Acquisition offer, minus £20,000–£22,000 for roof repairs, or

  • A loan for their share of communal roof repairs at 5.5% interest, plus

  • Potential VAT costs of 20%.

He apologised that, despite the proposal being six months old, the Council still cannot confirm VAT liabilities.

Mr Chowdhry highlighted:

• NHS worker Lynsey McQuater would need to take on over £40,000 in debt, despite being close to paying off her mortgage.

• External render costs had been added — again without clarity.

• Most homeowners would be financially forced into Voluntary Acquisition, which he called “paltry”.

Ms McAllan appeared sympathetic, especially when homeowners described their experiences. Several became emotional and struggled to speak.

Mr Chowdhry reminded the room:

“These offers push already financially broken families into deeper crisis.”

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Delivering Evidence: Fiona Crichton and Homeowners Speak Out

During the meeting, Fiona Crichton, Secretary of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, delivered detailed evidence to Housing Minister Mairi McAllan. This included:

• Statements from affected homeowners, highlighting the human and financial impact of RAAC on their families

• A report on the Clackmannanshire scandal, documenting delays, cost burdens, and governance concerns

• Allegations of corruption and mismanagement related to council handling of RAAC-affected properties

This submission ensured the Minister and officials had a clear, documented picture of both the systemic issues and the personal stories behind the crisis.

Mr Chowdhry noted that these contributions were essential, stating:

“It’s one thing to discuss numbers and processes — it’s another to see the real-life impact on families who have been abandoned for years. Fiona’s report, and the evidence from homeowners, leaves no room for ignoring the scale of this crisis.”

This marked a critical moment in the meeting, providing a factual foundation for the discussions on AHSP funding, voluntary acquisition, and the urgent need for legislative reform around mortgages and insurance for RAAC-affected homeowners.

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Alternative Pathways: Demolition, Rebuild, and Using the £5.9bn Clackmannanshire Allocation

When asked again about the AHSP proposal, Mr Wells admitted it still had not been sent.

Mr Chowdhry expressed concern that:

• A roof-only repair model may fail AHSP criteria.

• A mixed solution could be possible:

  • Two blocks demolished and rebuilt larger, funded from the £5.9bn allocated to Clackmannanshire area,

  • One block repaired, reducing overall cost.

Wells stated the £5.9bn is not easily accessed and is used across the whole region, including by RSLs and other councils.

Ms McAllan reiterated that the Aberdeen project worked because new homes were being created.

Mr Chowdhry asked whether a scheme based solely on Voluntary Acquisition could qualify — which would also deliver new homes. All homeowners present agreed they would accept this.

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A Moral Challenge to the Scottish Government

Mr Chowdhry pressed the moral argument:

• That Scottish homeowners are victims of a latent defect that governments should have known about.

• That the Scottish Government has received record funding, including £50bn overall and £510m for housing, and should allocate some of this to RAAC homeowners.

He said:

“If the Scottish Government cannot protect its own citizens, it should return responsibility for all Scottish homes back to the UK Government.”

Ms McAllan called this political. Keith Brown MSP argued that responsibility should rest with the UK. Mr Chowdhry countered with the latest funding figures.

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Homeowners Excluded From the RAAC Leadership Panel

During the meeting, Mr Chowdhry raised another significant issue:

Why have the UK RAAC Campaign Group and other homeowner groups not been invited to Scotland’s RAAC Leadership Panel?

He emphasised that those most affected — the homeowners themselves — had been excluded from the central forum where decisions and national policy discussions are taking place.

Mairi McAllan did not answer this question directly.

She did confirm that the Panel currently includes:

• The ABI (Association of British Insurers)

• Mortgage industry representatives

• Various institutional stakeholders

Mr Chowdhry pressed the point that it was unacceptable to include insurers and lenders — groups whose interests may conflict with those of homeowners — while excluding the very people living with RAAC.

He reminded the Minister that she had previously agreed to look into legislative reforms proposed by the UK RAAC Campaign Group, particularly around mortgages and insurance.

She reiterated that she would raise these issues with both the Scottish and UK Governments.

Mr Chowdhry made clear that these reforms were urgent:

“Mortgage prisoners whose homes are destroyed by latent defects or natural disasters must not be penalised for circumstances outside their control.
Their mortgages should automatically be converted to capital-repayment only. This must be the law.”

He also highlighted the need for:

• Stronger insurance obligations

• A legal duty for lenders to protect homeowners affected by structural defects

• Consistent access to affordable mortgage products for people stuck in crisis housing situations

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Meeting Conclusions — and a Hint of Hope

The meeting ended abruptly due to time constraints, but some progress was agreed:

• Kevin Wells will submit the AHSP proposal requested by Wilson Chowdhry to the Housing Minister, with the aim of exploring whether current proposals can be augmented or supported by the Scottish Government.

• After the meeting, Wells spoke privately with Mr Chowdhry and indicated that he believed some funding would emerge, which could ease the financial and structural pressures facing homeowners.

• MP Brian Leishman also reiterated his commitment to present Mr Chowdhry’s petition to the UK Parliament. This petition, which can be read [here], is notable because it can be debated in Parliament without requiring the usual 100,000 online signatures.

These steps offer a small but meaningful glimmer of hope for RAAC-affected homeowners, who have been waiting far too long for clarity, fairness, and support.