Portfolio Question Time – in the Scottish Parliament at 12:51 pm on 23 January 2025.
Liam Kerr
Conservative
12:51,
23 January 2025
To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete being found in current and formerly council-owned residential properties in Dundee. (S6O-04244)
Paul McLennan
Scottish National Party
I recognise that it is a very difficult time for those households that are affected by RAAC.
In line with Institution of Structural Engineers’ guidance, Dundee City Council assessed the RAAC in its rented homes as mainly low or medium risk and commenced a programme of inspections. The council is encouraging private owners to undertake their own surveys to identify the most appropriate action.
RAAC is regarded as an issue of building maintenance, with responsibility being a matter for property owners, informed by professional advice and best practice. We are working alongside Dundee City Council to ensure that affected households are supported appropriately.
Liam Kerr
Conservative
In Dundee, 81 blocks of flats and 293 cottages, 133 of which have been bought from the council, have been found to have RAAC. Dundee residents in places such as Craigie and Menzieshill and residents in Milton Street in Monifieth tell me that they have been abandoned by their councils and the Government. I am afraid that the Minister’s answer will have just reinforced that view.
A fortnight ago, the First Minister told me that the Government would engage with councils and residents to navigate them through the situation. When can Dundee residents affected by RAAC expect to hear from the minister so that a meeting can be set up with them and the council?
Paul McLennan
Scottish National Party
Obviously, the situation in Aberdeen has been raised in the Parliament, too. I have met residents and the council on a number of occasions, and officials continue to do so. I have not had a meeting request from Dundee City Council on that specific issue. Of course, we would be happy to consider such a request.
We are engaging with the United Kingdom Government on the matter. I have a meeting with my UK Government counterpart in the next week or two, at which I will raise the issue of financial support to deal with RAAC. The previous UK Government said that it would support the provision of whatever funding was required. I will raise that issue with the UK Government.
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