What's happened
Residents in Aberdeen are facing the demolition of over 500 homes due to faulty RAAC concrete. Many homeowners express distress over unclear compensation details, with some fearing significant financial losses. The local council's handling of the situation has raised concerns about negligence and transparency.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Jane Bradley from The Scotsman, residents are experiencing 'unbearable' stress due to unclear compensation details, with some fearing losses exceeding £70,000. The Independent highlights the emotional toll on homeowners, with John Meiklejohn stating, 'We feel that our homes have been stolen from us.' Sky News reports that over 500 homes are set for demolition, with residents alleging negligence on the part of the council, which they claim sold properties that were 'not fit for purpose.' This multifaceted issue underscores the need for transparency and accountability in local governance.
How we got here
Concerns about RAAC concrete emerged last year, prompting assessments of buildings across the UK. The material, used in construction from the 1950s to the 1990s, has been found to have a limited lifespan, leading to safety issues in numerous homes.
Common question
-
Why are over 500 homes in Aberdeen facing demolition?
Aberdeen is currently grappling with a significant housing crisis as over 500 homes are slated for demolition due to the use of faulty RAAC concrete. This situation has left many residents distressed and uncertain about their future. Below, we address common questions surrounding this pressing issue.
More on these topics
-
Aberdeen is a city in northeast Scotland. It is Scotland's third most populous city, one of Scotland's 32 local government council areas and the United Kingdom's 39th most populous built-up area, with an official 2018 population estimate of 198,880 for th