PROCAST are playing a key role in a huge programme to renovate hundreds of empty council houses to provide sanctuary for those fleeing conflict across the world.
The 500 homes in Aberdeen are being brought back to life to help people who have become displaced by war in Ukraine build new lives in Scotland.
Procast are one of three main contractors who will renovate the “void” properties at various locations across the city, which has already welcomed refugees from Afghanistan and Syria.
The first tranche of works – involving 280 houses – got under way at the start of January, 2023, with completion slated for the end of March 2023.
Involving new central heating systems, electrical rewiring, kitchen and bathroom installations, internal joinery, decoration, plastering, flooring, drainage, fascia/soffit works and roofing repairs – with a total value up to £8million – the project will run until January 2024.
Careful planning and sequencing of the works will be key, with agile multi-trade teams being deployed to work on numerous sites simultaneously in order to meet the contract deadline.
The project – which was procured by “mini competition” under the Scottish Procurement Alliance Whole House Refurbishment framework – is similar to others being delivered by Procast for Stirling Council, West Lothian Council, Dundee Council, Cadder Housing Association and River Clyde Homes.
It is being headed up by operationally by Peter McLaughlin and commercially by Michael Doherty, with the assistance of buyer Jennifer Strain.
A Procast spokesman said: “We are thoroughly delighted to be given the opportunity of working with Aberdeen Council to upgrade and refurbish their existing void stock in as short a duration as possible to maximise the use of housing stock in their area.
“These properties, in particular, are being prepared to help house people fleeing global conflict and are part of a nationwide effort to accommodate people displaced by war in Ukraine.”
Councillor Miranda Radley, convener of Aberdeen’s Communities, Housing and Public Protection Committee, said: “This investment will give people displaced by war in Ukraine a chance to resettle in our city and become part of our community.
“Coupled with the humanitarian aid provided by residents, Aberdeen has become a place of sanctuary, where families and individuals can rebuild their lives.”
Funding for the project was made available from the Scottish Government’s Longer Term Resettlement Fund.
Improved access to longer-term housing options will reduce dependency on potentially short-term accommodation.
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