Angus Council reverses housing emergency decision

Angus Council has finally acknowledged the pressing housing crisis by deciding to declare a housing emergency, a stark reversal from their previous stance just six weeks ago.

This significant shift in policy comes on the heels of a nationwide emergency declaration by the Scottish Government and a recent survey that highlighted a sharp decline in satisfaction among council tenants.

The council’s housing spokesperson, SNP councillor Kenny Braes, has proposed an amendment to establish a dedicated committee tasked with addressing the critical housing issue at hand.

Jill Scott, an independent councillor from Brechin who had been an advocate for declaring a housing emergency, expressed her astonishment at the council administration’s change of heart.

Speaking to The Courier, Cllr Scott remarked, “Six weeks ago, we could have implemented this amendment. I will rise above and accept Mr Braes’ amendment in the spirit of moving forward to aid the people of Angus.”

This policy shift is a response to the aftermath of Storm Babet and a significant blow to the housing budget, with a staggering £9 million depletion severely impacting the region. In Brechin, numerous homes still lay vacant post-storm, while councillors are urgently seeking solutions for approximately 300 unoccupied council houses across the district.

Cllr Braes stressed the imperative for a comprehensive and all-encompassing review of Angus’s housing challenges. He highlighted the importance of the proposed committee in providing direction, focus, and rigorous oversight during this declared housing emergency.