Scottish Government Announces £10 Million Funding Boost for RAAC-Affected Homes in Aberdeen
The Scottish Government has confirmed a £10 million funding agreement with Aberdeen City Council to support the remediation of properties affected by Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the Torry area. This significant investment aims to protect residents, accelerate affordable housing delivery, and ensure the city’s housing stock meets safety and sustainability standards.
The funding follows a council report detailing the proposed demolition and replacement of 372 RAAC-affected buildings in the Balnagask community. An independent study had recommended demolition as the safest approach, prompting the council to seek financial flexibility to manage the remediation process without disrupting other housing initiatives.
Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of rapid action to protect both residents and council finances.
“I am acutely aware that this is a worrying time for residents and homeowners in Balnagask,” said McAllan. “We understand the financial pressure RAAC remediation places on Aberdeen City Council. By providing £10 million through the Affordable Homes Supply Programme (AHSP), we can accelerate affordable housebuilding while freeing up council resources to support those affected by RAAC.”
The funding allocation will enable Aberdeen City Council to continue delivering planned affordable housing projectswhile using the released funds to manage RAAC remediation costs. McAllan emphasized that the approach balances public safety, housing delivery, and financial responsibility.
“This initiative contributes directly to Scotland’s affordable housing supply, while giving the council headroom to address RAAC remediation within its existing budget,” McAllan added.
While the £10 million grant is a significant step, council officials have not confirmed whether the Balnagask properties can ultimately be preserved. A spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council stated:
“We welcome the opportunity to bid for additional grant support from the Affordable Housing Supply Programme. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government to explore how these funds can be most effectively used to support residents and maintain housing safety.”
The Scottish Government is also continuing to lobby the UK Government to establish a nationwide RAAC remediation fund, aiming to provide additional support for affected properties across the country.
This funding announcement underscores Scotland’s commitment to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing, while addressing urgent challenges posed by aging infrastructure. By combining financial support with strategic planning, the Scottish Government and Aberdeen City Council aim to safeguard communities, accelerate affordable housing development, and set a benchmark for addressing RAAC-related risks across the UK.
