Demolition safest option for RAAC-affected homes

Council homes affected by RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) in Aberdeen are to be demolished on safety grounds – followed by a rebuilding programme.

A meeting of Aberdeen City Council today accepted officers’ recommendations for dealing with RAAC, drawn up after independent survey work, a detailed options appraisal, and extensive community engagement.

An estimated 366 council and 138 private addresses in the Balnagask area of Torry have RAAC in roof panels.

Several remedies were considered – including roof replacement – however demolition was judged to offer the quickest and most cost-effective way to remove the “high risk” posed by the lightweight concrete.

Councillor Miranda Radley, convener of the Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee, said: “This is one of the hardest decisions the Council has taken. We recognise the impact this will have on residents, many having lived in their home for many years.

“The absolute priority has to be their safety. The welfare of people is what matters most, and we will continue to offer individuals and families one-to-one support whilst meeting their housing needs as far as possible from existing stock.

“The Council will also explore providing a mix of new homes for the longer term, and we look forward to working with the local community and potential partners in developing the regeneration plans.”

Rehomed council tenants will be given first refusal on a replacement home matching their need.

The Council will aim to purchase the private properties by voluntary agreement to allow demolition to proceed safely and smoothly across the affected area. Owners will be offered market value along with reasonable legal costs, and home loss and disturbance payments.

Private owners and tenants will be offered the same rehoming support as council tenants.

Demolition and landscaping is estimated at £20-25 million and will take 3-4 years. Building new homes will cost an additional £130 million or more and take 5-15 years. Detailed delivery plans, including financing, will be drawn up for consideration.

The UK and Scottish Governments will be advised about the preferred option and the financial impact for the Council and private owners. The Council is to request a meeting to discuss funding support for the short-term costs and longer-term housing development requirements.

The process of rehoming council tenants has been ongoing since a decision by the Urgent Business Committee in February 2024.