Clydebank East high flats site security could cost up to £100k

The multi-storey flat site has been earmarked for regeneration since 2015, however the last two residents didn’t move out until September last year.

Security has been in place since May 2018, and has been increased already following problems with break-ins, vandalism and anti-social behaviour which raised concerns within the community.

There is noticeable damage to the buildings since they were emptied.

Last week’s West Dunbartonshire Council housing and communities committee agreed agreed to increase the spend on security to keep the site safe and were informed the demolition of the flats would be complete by May 2020.

Edward Thomas, housing operations manager, said: “We’re currently running several thousands of pounds per week in terms of the level of security cover that we’ve got there.

“The one thing that I would reassure the committee on though is that the level of incidents has dropped off massively since we upped the level of security spend and its very much under health and safety, and the SFRS advice that we’re doing that.

“It is diligent and necessary - but clearly it is coming at some expense.”

He told the committee that the spend on security has already exceeded a £50,000 imposed limit. Councillors agreed to increase this spend, but with a threshold of £100,000 put in place.

Councillor Diane Docherty added: “It is unfortunate it has to be done but needs must, there has been a lot of problems.”

In a housing and communities committee report to councillors, it states: “A design brief is being developed which will see this development deliver around 50/60 new homes for social rent, as part of a wider regeneration master planning approach being considered for this site.

“Work to prepare for the demolition of the properties on this site is underway.

“Due to the volume and type of properties the demolition is complex.”

There are 330 flats in the high rise, which has been earmarked for demolition since 2015.