Courthill housing concerns raised with local representatives

6.18.00pm GMT Wed 19th Dec 2007

A group of Bearsden residents have taken up their concerns over Council housing with Jo Swinson and Bearsden Councillor Duncan Cumming.

Jo and Duncan met with the Courthill residents yesterday to discuss problems with the flats at Nithsdale Crescent, Bearsden.

After the meeting, Jo said:

"Residents are concerned about the maintenance of their Council properties, particularly in relation to closes which have been marked with graffiti and are in need of repainting.

"I will be meeting officials from East Dunbartonshire Council in early January to discuss this situation. There may be scope for a Tenants Association to be set up to press for improvements, with the help of the Council's Tenant Participation Team, as well as advice on grants to help with maintenance that can be passed on.

"One major issue affecting these residents is over the roof, which is in need of repair. With some flats Council-let and some owner occupied, finding a fair way of funding this repair is a challenge for all stakeholders.

"Local people looking to change their homes and surroundings for the better should be given every help to do so, and I hope the Council can play a supportive role in this."

Bearsden North Councillor Duncan Cumming added:

"As new Councillor in Bearsden North, but as someone who has over eight years experience as a Councillor, I have seen the great opportunities that can flow from having meaningful and well structured local Tenants or Residents Associations. I think there are exciting opportunities that can be embraced if local people and other organisations work together for the common good. I'm looking forward to playing my part".