Aberdeen councillor urges First Minister to allocate funding for Torry RAAC homeowners

A Torry councillor is urging the First Minister to provide funding support for private homeowners affected by RAAC.

Conservative Councillor for Torry and Ferryhill Michael Kusznir has written to Humza Yousaf asking for the matter to be made a priority and commit to allocating funds to Aberdeen City Council.

Residents to be moved 'as soon as possible'

In February, it emerged hundreds of residents in the Balnagask area would be moved out of their homes 'as soon as possible' following the discovery of the collapse-risk concrete.

364 properties are owned by the local authority, whilst 140 have been purchased off the council and are now privately owned.

A rally was held outside the Town House in ahead of a housing committee meeting where homeowners demanded more support from the local authority.

During the meeting, council officers were tasked with sourcing funding for private owners.

Councillor 'deeply concerned'

In his letter to the First Minister, Councillor Kusznir said he is 'deeply concerned' about the 'lack of immediate funding' made available.

He said: "I understand the challenges faced by all administrations in allocating resources, but the urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. Failure to act promptly could have devastating consequences for our community.

"Therefore, I implore you to reconsider and expedite the provision of additional funding to Aberdeen City Council for addressing RAAC."

The Scottish Government has previously stated that funding support is a responsibility of Aberdeen City Council.

In a written response to Michael Marra MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Shirley-Anne Somerville said: "The Capital Budget is under considerable strain and remains overcommitted in this and future years. There are no available funds to put towards a national pot of money for RAAC remediation.

"Whilst the Chancellor has committed to spend what necessary, and we would expect to see new funding made available, this has not been forthcoming.

"Ultimately, it will be for local authorities to determine what support is available to homeowners, taking into account local priorities."