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CHISHOLM APPROVAL HERALDS BALLOT ON INVERCLYDE HOUSING STOCK TRANSFER

Plans to transfer 7,900 homes in Inverclyde to community ownership, with a £220 million programme of investment, took a major step forward today.

The proposed transfer from Inverclyde Council to River Clyde Homes was given approval in principle by Communities Minister, Malcolm Chisholm, after assessment of the transfer proposals.

The approval follows an appraisal – by Communities Scotland and the council – of the business merits of the proposals from River Clyde Homes to manage and invest in the housing stock. The proposals include a 30-year business plan for the housing.

The Minister’s announcement begins statutory consultation with tenants and puts plans in place for a secret postal ballot on the proposals.

Mr Chisholm said:

“I have no doubt that these proposals offer enormous benefits to Inverclyde tenants, their families and their communities.

“The Executive is committed to improving the quality of housing in Scotland to ensure decent homes for everyone. We are also committed to involving tenants locally in managing their homes and letting landlords know what they want.

“A successful ballot will see the cancellation of Inverclyde Council’s housing debt of around £75 million and make funding available to support the £223 million package of investment in existing homes. In addition, funding will provide 1,000 high quality new homes for rent to replace the poor-quality multi-storeys and tenements which will be demolished.

“Officials of the council and River Clyde Homes have worked hard on the proposals and will now fully consult with and provide advice to tenants. Then it is up to tenants themselves like those in Maukinhill who have also just voted to transfer from the council to allow a massive investment in new homes.”

Details of the ballot dates will be announced later.

FURTHER INFORMATION

1. Among the highlights in the community ownership proposals are:

a. Rents pegged at the rate of inflation for five years

b. A £60 million programme of investment for 1,000 new affordable homes in the area with £15 million already committed

c. New kitchens and bathrooms in every home in the next eight years

d. £3 million on environmental improvements and £2.5 million on fencing and improved security

e. Write-off of Inverclyde’s £75 million housing debt

f. New targets for repairs and maintenance.

2. Existing tenants rights are protected, including the right to buy at discount.

3. River Clyde Homes will be a ‘not-for-profit’ landlord, registered with Communities Scotland. Membership of the association will be open to all tenants, who will be able to vote representatives on to its area and management committees.

4. Independent professional advice to tenants is being provided by Tenants Information Service (TIS).

Communities Scotland was abolished on 1 April 2008. This is an archived site and the contents may no longer be accurate. If you are looking for information about housing and regeneration, please visit www.scotland.gov.uk For information about regulation and inspection, please visit www.scottishhousingregulator.gov.uk.