Archived News 2010
ACHA Rewards Members Across Argyll and Bute
22 December 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) has announced the winners of its annual member’s prize draw. One member in each of ACHA’s four operating areas area has been picked in the draw to receive a delicious hamper of Christmas food.
Life membership of ACHA is available to those in Argyll and Bute for just one pound. As well as receiving a copy of ACHA’s annual reports and accounts and being entitled to attend the Association’s AGMs, members elect the Area Committees and Board of Management, the governing bodies that direct ACHA. This means having a real say in how ACHA is run.
Anyone meeting the membership criteria just needs to complete an application form and pay their pound. There are a few simple rules which are explained on the application form and at www.acha.co.uk.
Four winners of hampers will be awarded to current members each December.
The winners of this year’s hampers as picked by Mr David King of Helensburgh are:
Helensburgh & Lomond – Mr G Sutherland, Helensburgh
Bute & Cowal – Mr W Dickson, Strachur
Oban, Lorn & Isles – Mr N MacKay, Oban
Mid Argyll & Kintyre – Mr J Muir, Lochgilphead
On hearing of his win Mr Sutherland commented; “I am delighted to win this lovely hamper”
Colette Benham, ACHA’s Director of HR and Corporate Services commented, “Members are important to ACHA and they deserve to be acknowledged. By awarding four hampers ACHA has a chance to say thank you. If you are eligible why not sign up in time for next year’s draw?”
Application forms for ACHA membership are available in all ACHA offices, at www.acha.co.uk and by phoning Lesley Lindsay on 01436 673 436.
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ACHA Housing Development at Highfield, Bowmore
17 December 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association is pleased to confirm that its first new development in Islay has been completed at Highfield, High Street, Bowmore. Highfield was built in 1894 and formerly used by the Islay & Jura CVS group before being acquired by ACHA with the support of funding by Scottish Government in March 2009.
The building has been converted into three self contained flats with the addition of a rear stairwell, comprising one 2 bedroom flat on the ground floor and two 1 bedroom flats on the upper levels. The development cost for the project of £340,000, was approved in January 2010 for the construction phase to commence comprising a funding package of Housing Association Grant from the Housing & Regeneration Directorate of the Scottish Government, a contribution from Argyll & Bute Council’s Strategic Housing Fund and the Association’s private finance.
The contract was awarded to local firm, MacEachern Brothers Ltd., of Keills, further to competitive tender and works commenced onsite in February 2010. The Association would like to thank Islay & Neil MacEachern and their workforce for their diligent efforts in providing a very high standard of finish. During the scheme construction there were 16 employees directly employed on the site including 3 apprentices (one painter and two joiners). The design work and project management on the contract included Lochgilphead based consultants, Stewart Consulting and Gordon McLeod, Quantity Surveyors, who were appointed to work with Association staff to deliver the project.
The Association’s new build programme has initially concentrated on the re-development of properties identified in the Business Plan in Campbeltown, Inveraray and Oban but has also now included other projects in Ardrishaig, Dunoon, Lochgoilhead and Garelochhead. Whilst the 3 units are much welcomed there remains a very high level of demand for affordable housing on Islay. The Association has submitted a planning application for 10 units in Port Ellen but at this time funding is not available for the project to progress. In addition the Association have been working with Islay Estates in the early stages of their Shoreline, Bowmore project.
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Rent Consultation Analysis
Background
The Association consulted with its tenants in advance of a decision about rent increases for the year 2011/12, the last year of the rent guarantee.
A comprehensive 4 page document was produced outlining the background to rent changes and what the money has been spent on to date.
The document was sent out to all 5,090 tenants in the Autumn Newsletter.
The Association provided opportunities to participate in the consultation with tenants having the opportunity to respond by the followings means;
Discuss with staff in the Area offices
Completing a tear off reply slip
E mail a response
Complete an online electronic survey
The Consultation commenced on the 12th November 2010 and ran until the 12th December 2010.
The Association discussed the consultation in detail at the November 2010 tenants Panel meeting.
The Association also ran an e-mail campaign on December 3rd in an attempt to encourage those that had consented to receive e-mails from ACHA to participate in the consultation process. This resulted in additional responses being received part way through the consultation period.
The survey did not ask specific questions by design but focussed on principles. This was because definitive information about next year’s rent increase could not be determined until December 2010 and the Board meeting of February 2011.
* The questions aimed to obtain views on the principles associated with the rent increase, in particular whether;
* It was preferable to tenants that current services were maintained and that rents rose to protect that position;
* It was preferable that that services were reduced to keep rents as low as possible;
* Whether tenants would be prepared to pay for some services on the basis of usage rather than a communal rent increase;
* Whether tenants thought the consultation as helpful.
Outcomes
The outcome of the consultation was;
5,090 surveys were issued, 59 responses were received which equates to a 1.16% response rate.
Surveys |
5,090 |
Responses |
59 |
Percentage return |
1.16% |
Of the 59 responses, 34 responses were received via the online electronic survey, 2 responses were received by e-mail and 23 responses were received on the tear off slips. No responses were recorded as coming from direct discussion with staff.
The responses to the survey questions were;
1) I would be willing to pay a higher rent in exchange for protecting services
2) I would accept that the Association may stop providing some services if my rent does not increase at RPI+1%
3) I would be willing to pay new service charges for some services not currently provided
4) Was this consultation informative or helpful?
Conclusions
The consultation response rate, at 1.16%, was low and is not statistically significant.
Out of the 59 responses;
* The majority did not wish to see rent increase to protect services.
* The majority agreed that the Association should stop providing services to keep rent low.
* A significant majority did not wish to see the principle of service charges introduced.
* There was no definitive decision as to whether the consultation was helpful or not
As a result the survey has determined that the tenants who responded, by majority, are prepared to see the services they receive diminish for a trade off in rent increase and have no desire to see services provided an a usage basis through service charge introduction.
The number of electronic responses was encouraging for a first time electronic survey and this encouraged greater participation.
The analysis will be presented to the Board as part of its deliberations regarding the 2011/12 rent increase.
Nick Pollard
Director of Finance and IT
21 December 2010
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7 December 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association, ACHA wanted something special this year to pass on Christmas Greetings. Working with Soroba Young Families Nursery, ACHA ran a competition for the children to design a festive Christmas card.
The difficult task of judging the colourful entries was carried out by members of ACHA’s Lorn Area Committee who were amazed at the incredibly high standard from the 3 and 4 year old entrants. Four year old Nicole Clark’s illustration and description of the Reindeers visit to Oban brought a smile to all and was picked as the winner.
Brian Murphy, ACHA’s Local Manager Housing Services was delighted to present Nicole with the winners’ trophy and a Christmas card of her own design at the unveiling of ACHA’s Christmas Tree on the Bealach-An-Righ, Oban. ACHA’s contractors Fountains Environmental Ltd provided the tree, the lights were kindly gifted by Neil McGougan Joiner & Building Contractor, which were connected by Oban Electrical Services and Councillor Neil MacKay made arrangements for the electricity supply.
Brian Murphy stated “We are very pleased that through joint working we are able to give all residents and visitors to the town of Oban a very festive welcome from us all. Thank you to all parties involved including ACHA’s In House Repairs Team who carried out all of the ground works.”
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ACHA Call for Good Neighbours During the Cold Snap
6 December 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) today called for residents to check that their neighbours were all right during the current freezing conditions. The Association has today, through its eight office network, started a phone round to try and ensure that residents who live on their own and may be vulnerable to the severe weather conditions are contacted to check that they are okay. Contact details for offices are as follows;
Helensburgh & Lomond - 01436 658700
Cowal - 01369 708688
Bute - 01700 501314
Mid Argyll - 01546 604800
Kintyre -01586 559055
Islay - 01496 301312
Oban, Lorn & Isles - 01631 567962
Mull - 01688 301025
An Association spokesperson commented “The severe weather conditions have been with us all week. Outside conditions are very difficult and it would appear sub-zero conditions are set to continue. The Association would ask residents to check on their neighbours, particularly if they haven’t seen them, and not to hesitate to contact their local ACHA office if they have any doubts about anyone’s wellbeing.”
The spokesperson further added “While Association staff are doing phone rounds and checks during routine calls nothing beats neighbours helping neighbours and if we can get this network going it means that anyone who is vulnerable during this unprecedented spell of weather can be helped.”
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ACHA Protecting You and Your Home in the Cold
1 December 2010
During February of this year ACHA tenants suffered as a result of a substantial number of burst pipes during the “big freeze”. The forecast for the next week is that temperatures across Scotland may dip towards record lows. In Argyll this is also likely to be the case with the wind chill factor pushing temperatures even lower than the forecast minus 6 degrees centigrade.
Tenants in February of 2010 not only had the problem of burst pipes and a lack of heating or running water but they also had damage to their homes and soft furnishings when the thaw eventually came.
ACHA are very aware that heating costs form a significant part of our tenant’s everyday costs not least because of the geography of Argyll and Bute but ACHA is asking its tenants to consider keeping the heating on for their own benefit during the cold snap.
It is particularly important if tenants leave properties empty for any period such as a trip to hospital or a short planned weekend trip away. The heating systems in our properties should not be completely switched off but kept at a low level to prevent freezing of pipes and the resulting damage.
Pipes that are frozen cannot always be unfrozen and any frozen pipes should be heated up gently not rapidly. Tenants with solid fuel heating should not attempt to relight or use their heating system if pipes are known to be frozen.
In the event that pipes do freeze then our repairs line should be contacted on our Repairs Freephone number 0800 028 2755.
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Important facts about the Right to Buy for our Tenants
01 December 2010
There are lots of views and comments about the Right to Buy, following approval by the Scottish Parliament of the Housing Bill on 3rd November 2010. It is expected that the Bill will become law during the spring of 2011.
In addition, the Housing Association’s application for Pressured Area Status, and what it means, has raised similar concerns.
The Housing Bill will change little, if anything, for our existing tenants.
Existing Tenants
Preserved Right to buy
Tenants who have occupied their homes since before 30 September 2002 retain the preserved right to buy. This gives the tenant the right to buy under the preserved terms.
Modernised Right to buy
If a tenant occupied a home, or moved home through a voluntary transfer after 30 September 2002, then they have the modernised right to buy. This gives the tenant the right to buy but at less preferential terms than under the preserved right.
Cost Floor
Any tenant buying under right to buy will have the amount of the purchase discount adjusted to reflect maintenance and investment made over a period. It is therefore important to note that if the Association replaces the windows, doors, kitchen, bathroom and heating system then that work is going to be reflected in the purchase price for at least a 10 year period.
The New Housing Bill
The Housing Bill intends to remove the right to buy for all new tenancies granted after a future date, which has not been announced yet (“the relevant date”).
Even after the relevant date, existing tenant’s rights will be preserved under the preserved and modernised right to buy.
Much like the changeover of from preserved to modernised right to buy, if a tenant moves home their rights may change and they may lose the right to buy altogether.
Any new tenants, from and after the relevant date, will not have the right to buy at all.
Pressured Area Status
Pressured Area Status means that those tenants with the modernised right to buy will have that right suspended from the date of approval of the Association’s application, for a period of at least 5 years. This means that modernised right to buy sales will not take place for the period of the suspension.
Independent advice
Buying your home is the biggest financial commitment anyone can make. We recommend that tenants obtain independent legal and financial advice about buying your home, whenever you consider this option.
Responsibilities and Consequences when buying
Buying your home means that you are responsible for its upkeep. This means that you are required to maintain the property. Your title deeds will contain clauses which require the property to be kept to a standard. This includes any garden and the external parts of the building (e.g. walls, roof, drains and pipes) where they are your sole responsibility, and any common parts and common ground.
Your title deeds may contain clauses which require you to maintain any common parts, e.g. stair wells, common doors and door entry systems, external walls, roofs etc, and may require you to pay a proportion of the costs of common repairs (whether carried out by you or other owners of those common parts).
Similarly, your title deeds may contain clauses which make you responsible for maintaining common ground which you own, this could include grass verges, footpaths, car parks, play parks, street furniture including street lighting where not adopted.
The sale will contain clauses which place restrictions on any further sale of the property within 3 years of purchase under right to buy.
The sale documents will contain clauses which prevent you from letting the property, to ensure that you occupy the property for a period not less than 3 years from purchase under the right to buy.
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ACHA recruits their first Graduate Trainee
15 November 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) approved a Traineeship Strategy in July 2010. This covered a range of initiatives such as Summer Student Placements, Modern Apprenticeships, and working in conjunction with local contractors who provide Trade Apprenticeships. ACHA have also been joint working with training providers and funders to support Future Jobs Fund and Get Ready for Work placements.
All of these initiatives have resulted in wider opportunities, and a proportion of ACHA’s recruitment activity is now targeted to traineeships, to mainstream them within the organisation.
Colette Benham, Director of HR & Corporate Services said, “A recent opportunity arose which allowed the organisation to advertise for a Graduate Trainee post, and we are delighted that Sarah Thomson has started with us this week.”
Sarah Thomson, Graduate Trainee commented “I’m incredibly pleased to have been offered this post, and am excited about getting started in the role. As a business graduate who has been a resident of Argyll and Bute for most of my life, this is an ideal opportunity. I look forward to a future within ACHA.”
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ACHA Tenants Receive Garden Awards
12 November 2010
ACHA has recently launched a new garden competition for its tenants throughout Argyll & Bute. Tenants were invited to nominate their garden and entries were judged by Alistair Cakebread from Connaught Environmental Services in Cowal during September. The gardens were given marks out of ten for each of the following categories: Tidiness, General Health, Design, Diversity, Structure and Harmony.
This year’s winners were Miss Grant, of Queen’s Road (Cowal North) and Mr & Mrs McDade of The Glebe (Cowal Central).
Miss Grant said “I am really pleased about winning ACHA’s garden competition, I have had a lot of help from my neighbours with the garden”.
Mr & Mrs McDade were also pleased about winning the competition, Mr McDade commented “I just gather bits and pieces for the garden as I go”.
Carol-Anne Shearer, Vice Chair of Cowal & Bute Local Area Committee and Jean MacNicol, Housing & Neighbourhood Services Assistant presented the winners with a trophy following a recent visit to the gardens.
Alistair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA said “I am absolutely delighted with the interest shown by our tenants in this year’s gardening competition and would like to thank everyone who has taken part”.
ACHA intend to run this competition annually, entry forms for 2011 can be obtained from ACHA, Dolphin Hall next spring.
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ACHA Completes its First New Build Homes in Oban
2 November 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) completed its first new build housing development in Oban with an official opening on the 29th October, 2010.
The 8 new homes were built at 1 – 4 Croft Avenue on a site where the previous properties had been demolished due to poor ground conditions.
The opening was officially carried out by Councillor Duncan MacIntyre JP, Chair of Argyll and Bute Council’s Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee. He was accompanied by Iain Gray MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, who handed over the keys to the new residents.
The development cost £1million and was built by Argyll construction firm, M&K MacLeod. Funding contributions came from the Scottish Government, Argyll and Bute Council and ACHA.
Works commenced on site in August 2009 and was particularly challenging due to peaty ground conditions, which involved additional piled foundations being put in place. The properties benefit from solar panels on the roofs to heat water within them. The development is made up of 6 two bedroom flats and 2 four bedroom houses. During the site construction, 34 employees were directly employed on the site, through M&K MacLeod, including 3 apprentices.
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA, commented “I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to build 8 desperately needed affordable homes on this challenging site. They will contribute, for many years to come, in meeting housing need in Oban.”
He further added “ACHA has built nearly 100 homes in the last 2 years but with over 3,800 families and single people on housing waiting lists in Argyll and Bute the need for a continuing programme of affordable new build housing is more vital than ever.”
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28 October 2010
ACHA has recently launched a new garden competition for its tenants throughout Argyll & Bute, Judging of ACHA’s ‘Bute in Bloom’ competition took place during September.
Tenants were invited to nominate their garden and entries were judged by Alistair Cakebread from Connaught Environmental Services. The gardens were given marks out of ten for each of the following categories: Tidiness, General Health, Design, Diversity, Structure and Harmony.
This year’s winners were Laura & Ian MacGregor, of Roslin Crescent. Laura said “I am really pleased about winning ACHA’s garden competition, I take pride in my garden and spend a lot of time in it”.
Margaret MacGregor, Chairperson of Cowal & Bute Local Area Committee and Rosemary McMillan, Local Manager, Housing & Neighbourhood Services presented Mrs MacGregor with the competition trophy following a recent visit to the garden.
Alistair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA said “I am absolutely delighted with the interest shown by our tenants in this year’s gardening competition and would like to thank everyone who has taken part”.
ACHA intend to run this competition annually, entry forms for 2011 can be obtained from ACHA, Union Street next spring.
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FISH Project ‘nets’ £ Half a Million
21 October 2010
The FISH Argyll project which gives welfare rights assistance to tenants has reached an amazing milestone – half a million pounds in previously unclaimed benefits have been claimed by tenants from all over Argyll and Bute.
Since the project began in March, four Welfare Rights Officers have so far helped around 500 tenants to claim benefits for a variety of circumstances. These are benefits and credits that tenants were possibly unaware could be claimed. In addition to this there is assistance with appeals and tribunals.
ACHA, West Highland Housing Association and Dunbritton Housing Association are working collaboratively on this project to see their tenants get what they are entitled to. Many of those claiming have been in very difficult circumstances; carers for family members, those with disabilities and a large number of very elderly tenants who were unaware that they could be in receipt of additional benefits.
“It’s a wonderful service.” These were the words of Mrs Galloway from
Dunoon (pictured ) after the FISH Argyll project helped her. “I didn’t think I would be entitled to anything extra but I made the call and did get a result. I would definitely recommend the service to other tenants”.
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ACHA’s 4th Annual General Meeting since Stock Transfer
6 October 2010
On Thursday 23rd September Argyll Community Housing Association held its fourth Annual General Meeting since stock transfer in November 2006, in Inveraray.
Members present received a report from the Chairman Norman Beaton on the Association’s work during the previous year. This confirmed that 4,042 elements were replaced in Association homes as part of the organisation’s ongoing programme to meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015. These elements included new kitchens and bathrooms, windows and doors and heating and rewiring. This investment resulted in £15million being spent in the construction sector.
The Association also reported progress with the Association’s new build housing programme. The Association now has 52 completed homes in Campbeltown, 12 in Garelochhead, 5 in Inveraray and will be shortly coming off site with 18 new homes in Ardrishaig, 8 in Oban and 3 in Bowmore.
The Chairman also reported that considerable progress was made during the year with respect to the organisation’s early action funding programme. This programme focussed on tarring and improving unadopted roads in ACHA estates, modernising playparks, improving water supplies that are off the mains and demolishing redundant garages. Funding of £11million was secured from the Scottish Government to carry out this work.
Members also received a report on a number of initiatives introduced during the year by the Association. The Association’s welfare rights service had begun during the year and in its short period of existence had brought over £400,000 into tenants’ pockets. This being money that tenants were entitled to but had previously gone unclaimed.
The Association’s Argyll in Bloom competitions had been run across the area for the first time and was reported as being very successful in encouraging the development of gardens with plants and vegetables.
Members also received a report on the Association’s Traineeship Strategy which had started during the year which involved the Association taking on young people within its existing staff structure to allow them the opportunity to develop a career in housing. It was reported that to date four young people had joined the Association through this initiative and, alongside this, seven students involved in further education had worked with the organisation in summertime placements.
Members also heard that the Association had been successful during the year in continuing to obtain anti social behaviour orders against a number of people who had been through their conduct, causing difficulty for their neighbours. This had occurred through close working with the Police and members of the community to provide appropriate evidence to persuade the courts to grant anti social behaviour orders.
The following people were elected or returned to ACHA’s Board;
Norman Beaton, George Farquhar, Bill McIntyre, Margaret MacGregor, Lorraine Anne Drysdale, John Muir, Sandra MacKenzie, Ann Trotter, Michael Brown, Alexandra Glazsher, James Loughrey, Marri Malloy, George Douglas, Betty Rhodick, Ronald Finnighan, Councillor Neil MacKay, Councillor Roddy McCuish, Councillor Alister McAlister, Councillor Al Reay, Councillor Rory Colville.
At the close of the AGM Norman Beaton from Ardrishaig was elected Chair for a further year, along with Bill McIntyre from Helensburgh as Vice Chair and Councillor Roddy McCuish from Oban as Board Secretary.
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Community’s Tribute to Local Councillor
1 October 2010
Eighteen new homes were formally opened today (Friday 1st October, 2010) by Argyll and Bute’s MP Alan Reid.
The development at Oakfield Road, Ardrishaig was commissioned by Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) and named MacMillan Court in recognition of 25 years public service by Councillor Donnie MacMillan following community consultation.
The new development provides eighteen homes for rent and was built by Mid-Argyll builders M&K MacLeod. Commenting at the opening, Alan Reid MP said “I am honoured to have been invited to open MacMillan Court. I’m delighted that ACHA have been able to build much needed affordable housing on what was a derelict site. I am also very pleased that ACHA have honoured Donnie MacMillan for his many years of service to the local community by naming the development after him. I wish all the residents well in their new homes.”
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of Argyll Community Housing Association added “The Association was really pleased to be able to build these desperately needed affordable homes in Ardrishaig. In these difficult economic times the development provided 58 jobs and training for 6 apprentices.”
The development received Housing Association Grant funding from the Scottish Government and was completed in eighteen months. The total construction costs were £1.9million.
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8 September 2010
Information for ACHA tenants currently in the Connaught kitchen and bathroom replacement programme
There have been reports in the press of Connaught plc and its social housing business going into administration.
If you currently have works on site ACHA will work to ensure that the job is completed quickly.
If you have been written to by Connaught with a site start date this will be unlikely to be met. We will be in touch with you as quickly as we can with an alternative date.
If you require any further information please contact your local area office.
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New Kitchen For Cragroy Sheltered Housing Complex
27 August 2010
Residents of Argyll Community Housing Association’s sheltered housing complex Cragroy in Dunoon were treated to a new common room kitchen courtesy of Connaught Partnerships Ltd.
Connaught staff had been working on improvements to kitchens and bathrooms within flats at Cragroy when they noticed that the common room kitchen was in need of upgrading.
After offering to donate and fit a new kitchen Connaught staff completely removed the old one and fitted a modern replacement before adding the finishing touches, including supplying a set of Connaught mugs.
Wendy Anderson, Connaught’s Liaison Officer said “It was Connaught’s pleasure to work in the homes of the residents at Cragroy and to fit the kitchen units within the communal kitchen. Hopefully it will be put to good use by the residents and they will enjoy using the new kitchens in their own homes”.
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA said “The Association would like to thank Connaught for the generosity they have shown by donating a new kitchen to the residents of Cragroy”.
Mrs Ferguson, a resident at Cragroy commented “Everything is wonderful, the kitchen is nice and bright and seems more spacious”.
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ACHA Secures Anti Social Behaviour Order Against Persistent Troublemaker
23 August 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) has succeeded in obtaining a full Anti Social Behaviour Order against Mr John Johnstone for persistent misconduct in the vicinity of 15 Millpark Avenue, Oban.
Despite not being an ACHA tenant the Association took legal steps to try and protect the residents of Millpark Avenue from his regular and persistent anti social behaviour. The Association was supported in its application by Councillor Roddy McCuish and local residents.
The terms of the Order preclude Mr Johnstone from harassing the residents of 15 Millpark Avenue and it bans him from going within 50 metres of the property.
Commenting on the Court’s decision the Association’s Chief Executive, Alastair MacGregor, said
“I am delighted that we have been able to obtain this full ASBO which will enable the Association to protect local residents from Mr Johnstone’s unacceptable and anti social conduct.
He further added “I am really grateful to ACHA staff, local residents, the Police and Councillor McCuish for the unified determination that was displayed to not allow this man to continue to get away with making residents’ lives a misery.”
The Association understands that Mr Johnstone is currently in jail but does have a right of appeal.
Councillor Roddy McCuish stated “I am wholeheartedly behind the action that ACHA have taken in obtaining a full ASBO against this individual. This sends a clear message that anti social behaviour will not be tolerated in any shape or form. I am especially delighted for the residents of 15 Millpark Avenue who have gone through hell, for years, at the hands of this person.”
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Watson Place’s New-Look Play Park now Open for Use
11 August 2010
The newly revamped playground has opened its gates to youngsters – just in time for the school holidays and is already being well-used by the children of the area.
The Watson Place play area in Ardbeg was officially opened on Friday 16th July 2010 by Cllr McIntyre and local resident Abbie Tayler.
Abbie Tayler, aged 9, said in a letter to the association “Thank you for the new play park, my friend and I love going on the big swing and hanging on the blue bars”.
The re-vamping of the play area at Watson Place, Ardbeg was funded from Early Action Funding awarded to ACHA from the Scottish Government via Argyll & Bute Council and cost approximately £54,000.
The complete upgrade of the was tendered with specialist companies and the successful contractor designed the new play area to include a birds nest pendulum swing, roundabout, multi-play unit, springie, see-saw, toddler swings and a picnic table. The upgrade also included new safety surfacing and improvements to safety and access.
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ACHA Customer Satisfaction Survey – Cowal & Butes Winners Announced
10 August 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association has launched customer satisfaction surveys in the Association’s local offices throughout Argyll & Bute this year. The Cowal & Bute area offices commenced their survey in April and the winner was drawn at a recent Cowal & Bute Area Committee meeting.
All ACHA customers who participated were entered into a prize draw with a chance to win a £25 shopping voucher.
Margaret MacGregor, Chairperson of Cowal & Bute Area Committee said “ACHA is committed to ensuring that all customers receive a high quality service and the information provided by tenants during this survey will help us to achieve our goal”.
The survey’s purpose is to provide the opportunity for service users to share their opinions on the quality of the customer service provided at the local office’s by ACHA. The results will provide ACHA with valuable feedback.
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ACHA Makes Solid Progress In Infrastructure Investment
20 July 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) over the past year has invested just over £1,809,000 in infrastructure improvements in Argyll and Bute. This has involved re-tarring and improving roads and footpaths in housing estates in Oban and Lorn and Helensburgh and Lomond to the value of £940,000.
The Association has also demolished 358 garages, which were at the end of their useful life, to a value of £539,000. The demolished sites will initially provide more car parking space but some will become available for new housing in the future.
At the time of the housing stock transfer in November 2006, 41 playparks, in a very poor condition were transferred to the Association. The Association has now improved and upgraded 15 of them to the value of £253,000 across communities in Argyll and Bute, including Oban, Dalmally, Ardbeg, Innellan, Cardross, Drumlemble, Lochgilphead and Tarbert.
A number of water supplies were taken over by the Association at the point of transfer and required modernisation. Modernisation is taking place at Achahoish, Glendaruel and on Tiree to the value of £76,000.
Commenting on the work carried out, Alastair MacGregor, ACHA’s Chief Executive stated
“The Association was able to negotiate, at the point of transfer, £11million of funding for infrastructure improvements around our housing stock. I am really pleased that this recent investment of £1.8million is improving roads, amenity spaces, children’s play areas and water supplies.”
He further added "It is also great to see, in these difficult economic times, local companies like Ennstone Thistle, M & K MacLeod of Lochgilphead, Stewart McNee of Dunoon, Kevan Brown of Tiree and MacFadyen Contractors, Campbeltown, carrying out these contracts.”
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ACHA Launches Traineeship Plans
20 July 2010
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The traineeships will cover modern apprenticeships, office posts and graduate trainees. This will complement ACHA's existing traineeship work which involves 7 students with an interest in housing working for the Association during term time breaks. Commenting on the decision, Alastair MacGregor, ACHA's Chief Executive said:
"The association, by making this an annual recruitment exercise, resists the temptation of a one-off initiative which does not allow us to train our own on a regular basis for the future." He further added that, "housing activities can offer very interesting and diverse opportunities from traditional trades-based apprentices and housing management roles right through to opportunities in finance, personnel, para-legal and surveying."
The association also committed itself to working with the Government's Future Jobs fund and Ready to Work schemes to allow placements within the organisation for young people to allow them to develop skills over a designated period of time in a working environment.
Alastair MacGregor concluded by saying:
"Argyll's young people are its future and we as an organisation are delighted to make this long term commitment through 3 specific initiatives."
Pictured: Alastair MacGregor welcomes David Hunter a student trainee from Oban, currently studying at Stirling University to his ACHA placement.
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ACHA Announces Dates for its Annual General Meeting and Customer Involvement Day
12 July 2010
ACHA have announced dates for its Annual General Meeting & Customer Involvement Day. For the dates in your area please click on the link below;
Cowal and Bute
Lomond
Mid Argyll & Kintyre
Oban Lorn & the Isles
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Salen Children Benefit from Refurbishment of their Playparks
2nd July, 2010
Playparks at Bentalla Crescent and Jarvisfield in Salen have recently been upgraded by Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA). These refurbishments were made possible through £67,000 of funding from the Scottish Government’s Early Action Fund.
The children at Salen are delighted with both play areas, especially the pre 5 unit as the Bentalla Play Area is right on their door step.
ACHA’s Chief Executive, Alastair MacGregor commented “ACHA is delighted to carry out this much needed work on the two playparks, which will benefit the local children. It is beneficial that they are ready to be used during the summer holiday”
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Balloons of Hope Signify New Housing Start for Campbeltown
21 June 10
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) welcomed Housing and Communities Minister, Alex Neil MSP, to Campbeltown to officially open the organisation’s 52 home development, New Parliament Place
A key part of the official opening was the release of Balloons of Hope by children from the neighbouring Dalintober Primary School. Each balloon carried a child’s wish for the future.
The development itself was built on the site of tenements which had reached the end of their life and had been demolished.
The overall cost of the development amounted to £6.9million of which £5.5million came from the Scottish Government and was part of a commitment following the stock transfer to ACHA in November 2006.
The design of the new homes was taken forward by the local Dalintober and Millknowe Tenants and Residents Association, working with ACHA’s design team.
The competed development is a mixture of houses and flats with solar panels for heating, and much of the demolished tenements were recycled. The development also provides 6 allotments.
Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said
“The Scottish Government is investing £5.5 million to provide quality affordable homes for the people of Argyll, which is more good housing news for the area.
“The construction of these 52 energy efficient homes is vital to ensure the prosperity of Argyll and it helps to house and retain the local population.
“It will also sustain the local building trade and related businesses.”
Alastair MacGregor, ACHA’s Chief Executive added “Back in 2004 a number of us met to plan a future for Parliament Place and Broad Street, 6 years later we see a dream become a reality. They are the best houses I have seen built in 25 years working in housing.”
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ACHA Obtains it's First ASBO in Bute
7 June 10
Argyll Community Housing Association has successfully obtained an Anti-Social Behaviour Order against one of their tenants for various breaches of their Tenancy Agreement.
The investigation related to incidents in a town centre location spanning over a considerable length of time involving noise nuisance, breaches of the peace and damage to ACHA property.
Susan Stewart, Housing Officer said “It is regrettable that ACHA have had to take this course of action but the tenant and their family continued to act in an anti-social manner despite numerous warnings”.
Rosemary McMillan, Local Manager said “I would urge our tenants/residents to report anti-social incidents they have experienced by phoning 01700 501314 and speaking to a duty officer who will record the details. The matter will then be investigated where required by our Housing & Neighbourhood Services Team”.
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA stated “The Association is pleased that in obtaining this court order it demonstrates the steps we will take to help protect communities from anti social behaviour”.
The Association would like to thank all parties involved with the progression of this case particularly the Police and Argyll & Bute Council for their joint working approach with ACHA.
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New Soroba Rail Bridge Officially Opens
21 May 2010
The new Soroba Rail Bridge was officially opened today (Friday 21st May) by Councillor Duncan MacIntyre, Chair of Highland and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS).
The £820,000 project was commissioned by Argyll Community Housing Association as part of a deal struck between the Scottish Government, Argyll and Bute Council and the Association during the housing stock transfer in November 2006.
The new bridge replaces the original structure which was built in 1973 and was no longer structurally safe. The contract was built through Carillion Civil Engineering Scotland Ltd and was completed in 4 weeks and involved the bridge parts being assembled off-site and delivered to Oban in a convoy of vehicles.
The official opening involved the cutting of a ribbon by Councillor MacIntyre and the planting of a tree and a time capsule by local children from Soroba. There was also a march across the bridge led by piper Keith Macrae from Oban High School who lives in Soroba.
Commenting at the opening, Councillor MacIntyre said: “I would like to pay tribute to everyone involved in the planning and carrying out of this major project.
“I know how vital this footbridge is to the communities it serves, and I am delighted that they now have a state of the art, safe structure to link the Soroba and Drummore Road areas.
“This link was badly missed while the work was going on. But I’d like to thank the local people for their patience, and I am sure they now feel that the inconvenience was well worth it.”
Alastair MacGregor, ACHA’s Chief Executive, added: “As an association we are very pleased that an additional benefit from the housing stock transfer was to secure funding for this vital piece of transport infrastructure which continues the safe pedestrian link between Soroba and the town of Oban.”
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Home Improvements Completed as ACHA Tenant Turns 102 Years Young
6 May 10
Argyll Community Housing Association’s (ACHA) oldest tenant is preparing for a double celebration after planned improvements to her home were completed in time for her 102nd birthday!
Mrs Maisie Robertson of Douglas Cottages, Dunoon was presented with an early birthday cake by Iona MacPhail, ACHA Regional Manager, Bill Coghill, Connaught Partnerships regional director for Scotland and the team of technicians and customer service staff who worked to complete kitchen and bathroom improvements to her property.
On Thursday 6th May, Mrs Robertson will be celebrating her 102nd birthday in her home with friends and family and is delighted with improvements that have been made. She said: “I was a little worried about the improvements to my kitchen and bathroom as there was such a lot of work to do. Obviously it was a disruption for a few days but all my questions were answered and I was kept informed of the works throughout and it was definitely worth it, as the end result is just fabulous.”
Christine Johnston, Director of Housing and Neighbourhood Services, said: “All of us at ACHA are delighted to help Mrs Robertson celebrate her birthday. It’s been a real joint effort ensuring the work was completed with a minimum of disruption and it’s a great bonus that we are finished in time to let Mrs Robertson focus on enjoying her birthday.”
Bill Coghill, Connaught Partnerships regional director for Scotland, said: “Where possible the individual requirements of ACHA customers are taken into account as part of the improvement process to their homes and we were delighted to be able to finish our works to allow Mrs Robertson to celebrate her birthday in style.”
ACHA and Connaught are working in partnership to provide kitchen and bathroom improvements to around 3000 properties across the whole of Argyll and Bute.
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Soroba Railway Bridge Now Open For Pedestrian Use
6 April 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) confirmed today that the Soroba Railway Footbridge is now open to members of the public.
There will be continuing works around the new bridge over the next few weeks to complete environmental improvements and services realignments.
The Association hopes that all works will be completed by the end of April 2010 and plan an official opening in May 2010 involving Councillor Duncan MacIntyre, Chair of HiTRANS and members of the local community.
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA commented “I am delighted that we now have the old bridge down and the new one up providing safe access across the railway line. I would like to thank everyone for their patience while this large engineering project went ahead”
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ACHA Approves Budget of £37.6million for the Coming Year
1 April 2010
ACHA’s Board have just approved a budget of £37.6million for the coming financial year. By far the largest investment, £23.8million, will go into the continuing improvement of the Association’s 5,100 homes in Argyll and Bute. This will result in 1,070 kitchens, 1,070 bathrooms, 600 heating and rewires and 660 houses having new windows and doors installed. The Association also plans to start re-roofing and re-rendering 120 homes.
The Association’s continuing new build programme of 98 homes will see an investment of £2.8million which will allow desperately needed accommodation to be provided in Oban, Ardrishaig, Campbeltown, Islay and Dunoon.
The Association also plans to invest £5million in day to day repairs and planned maintenance in its housing stock.
Commenting on the programme for the coming year the Association’s Chief Executive, Alastair MacGregor, said “In these challenging and difficult economic times I am pleased that we have been able to approve a budget which will improve homes, build new ones and invest in retaining and creating jobs in the Argyll and Bute economy.
He further added “We are particularly pleased that we have been able to secure grants of up to £13.8million from the Scottish Government as part of the stock transfer agreement to meet housing need in Argyll and Bute.”
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Are you interested in becoming a home owner?
19 March 2010
We have 5 properties for sale in our development at New Parliament Place, Campbeltown:
2 apartment cottage flats
3 apartment mid terraced houses
4 apartment end terraced house
The “LIFT” scheme is a Low cost Initiative that is aimed to help people who wish to own their own home but who cannot afford to pay the full price for a house.
Please find attached the following documentation:
Sales brochure for the properties at our Campbeltown Development
Scottish Government Leaflet – Helping you become a home owner
Application Form
If you would like further information on this scheme please contact Yvonne Litster on 01546 604800 or e-mail housing.kintyre@acha.co.uk Alternatively, pop into any ACHA office and speak to any member of staff.
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FISH project ‘nets’ 4 new Welfare Rights Officers
8 March 2010
ACHA (Argyll Community Housing Association) has developed a new welfare rights service for tenants in partnership with Dunbritton Housing Association and West Highland Housing Association.
Building on the success of the FISH project (financial inclusion services in housing) from last year, the housing association partnership has obtained grant funding of £259,000 from the Scottish Government and the Henry Smith Charity for four new welfare rights officers for an 18 month period.
The new welfare rights officers will help tenants of the three associations from all over Argyll and Bute to claim benefits and credits that they are entitled to. It is very often elderly people or those on low incomes who are not claiming and in the UK last year there was an estimated £16 billion of un-claimed income related benefits alone.
ACHA’s Chief Executive, Alastair MacGregor said “We are absolutely delighted to be able to assist our tenants to claim benefits – money they are entitled to and previously have missed out on. This will be a welcome income boost for many individuals and to the Argyll economy.” He further added “At a time of real pressure on grant resources I am really pleased that the hard work of the three associations concerned has managed to secure this valuable resource to help our people.”
The new welfare rights officers will provide services through the ACHA office network throughout Argyll and Bute and will also link up with West Highland and Dunbritton Housing Association facilities.
The new Welfare Rights Officers left to right: David Kelly, Fiona Evamy, Corrina MacKenzie, Garrick Collier.
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MacLeod's Construction Donate DVD Player to Ferffad Court
5th March 2010
Residents of Argyll Community Housing Association’s sheltered housing complex, Ferfadd Court, received a donation of a DVD player from MacLeod Construction Ltd after successfully completing a window contract within the complex. The DVD player was presented by contract manager, Iain MacAskill to Margaret Currie, a resident of Ferfadd Court.
Iain MacAskill said “I noticed that the residents were selling books to raise money for a DVD player and thought that providing a DVD player for them would be a nice gesture to mark the end of the window contract”.
Mrs. Currie said “The contractors have built a good rapport with the tenants from the outset, have kept them well informed at all stages of the works and we are pleased with the end results”. She explained that the DVD player will be used in the communal lounge for regular film nights for the residents.
Alastair Macgregor, Chief Executive of ACHA stated “I am delighted that MacLeod Construction Ltd who are working on the new windows and rendering have been able to donate this DVD player for our tenant’s leisure activities”.
The installation of new double glazing windows at Ferfadd Court will ensure that ACHA are another step closer to meeting the Scottish Housing Quality Standard’s key criteria for energy efficiency by 2015.
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8 February 2010
Work is to start next week on replacing a railway footbridge in Oban.
The existing bridge, which links the Soroba Housing Estate with Drummore Road, is to be replaced by an £820,000 new structure.
The work, which was commissioned by Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) as part of the Housing Stock Transfer Agreement in 2006, will start on site on February 15 and last approximately six weeks.
The new steel footbridge –which will include ramps to facilitate access – will open to the public by March 30.
There will be no public access to a footbridge for some four weeks of the work schedule. The alternative route for this period will be via McCaig Road.
A display of the plans will placed in the Community Centre in Soroba over the next few days, and an article describing the works will be published in the Soroba Siren newsletter, which is distributed to all households within the estate.
Working hours during the work, which is being carried out by Carillion, will generally be from 07.30 to 18.00.
Weekend working will be kept to a minimum. However, due to restrictions imposed by Network Rail, it will occasionally be necessary to employ a nightshift – either mid-week or at weekends.
Specific operations where night-time working will be required are the removal of the existing bridge and the erection of the new structure.
ACHA chief executive Alastair MacGregor said although access to all local estate roads would be maintained for the rest of the work, these two occasions will require the overnight closures of both Drummore and Soroba Roads.
“Our aim is obviously to minimise disturbance to the residents of Soroba throughout the duration of these works, and a great deal of work has already gone in to ensuring that this is the case,” he added.
“Modern, silenced equipment will be used whenever it can be, and access will be maintained as and when required where at all possible.
“Despite these efforts, there is unfortunately bound to be some disruption to local residents during the works. But I hope they will bear with us in the knowledge that what they will have at the end of it is a modern, state of the art footbridge.”
The dates on which the overnight operations are provisionally scheduled are:
- Saturday Feb 27 21.30hrs – Sunday Feb 28 17.40hrs (Existing Bridge Removal)
- Saturday March 20 21.30hrs – Sunday March 21 17.40hrs (New Structure Erection)
- Sunday March 21 21.30hrs – Monday March 22 07.45 hrs (New Structure Erection)
Argyll and Bute Council’s spokesperson for Transportation and Infrastructure, Councillor Duncan MacIntyre, said the community had waited a long time for the bridge to be replaced.
“I am delighted that this work is now being done, and I am sure the new structure will be an enormous improvement on the existing bridge,” he added.
Once completed, the ownership of the new bridge will pass to the Council.
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ACHA Gets "Fair" Rating from Regulator
29 January 2010
The Scottish Housing Regulator has published its inspection report on Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA), awarding it a 'Fair' rating overall.
The purpose of inspection is to provide an independent external assessment of the effectiveness of housing service delivery, and make recommendations to help improvement.
ACHA owns just over 5,000 houses and 3 gypsy/traveller sites located across the Argyll and Bute Council area.
Lesley Kerr, Acting Head of Inspection at the Scottish Housing Regulator, said: "Our inspectors found that ACHA has some strengths but also some areas where improvement is needed.
"ACHA is a relatively young organisation that was formed to receive houses transferred from Argyll and Bute Council. It faces a range of challenges and has worked well to improve most of its services over a relatively short period of time.
"The Association has made good progress on most of the commitments it made to its tenants and has strengths including estate management, access to its housing list, financial reporting and it is building good quality new houses. However, a number of its service improvements are at an early stage and it has been slow to progress the delivery of some promised stock investment works. ACHA is improving its business planning, performance management framework and SHQS plans but currently these have several weaknesses and risks.
"The Association also has gaps in its understanding of how satisfied its tenants are with its services as its first survey is not due to be completed until 2010."
Norman Beaton, Chairman of ACHA, said: "As a young organisation we are pleased with the progress we have made to date and look forward to building on the achievements we have already made."
Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of ACHA, said : "As an Association we welcome the Scottish Housing Regulator's recognition of the considerable progress the Association has made in delivering our stock transfer commitments to tenants in our first 3 years. We look forward to delivering on the challenges that lie ahead."
The inspection report can be found at www.scottishhousingregulator.gov.uk
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28 January 2010
During October and November, Argyll Community Housing Association’s (ACHA) Mid Argyll & Kintyre staff carried out a survey of tenants and others who visited the two offices.
The purpose of this was to find out whether customers were happy with their experience of coming in to ACHA offices.
The survey took the form of a written questionnaire and covered areas such as frequency and nature of their visit; the care and attention they received from staff; our office environment including accessibility; awareness of our Membership; our local Area Committee and their overall experience. Completed surveys were entered into a prize draw for two £25 vouchers of their choice.
ACHA’s Regional Manager, Yvonne Litster commented “It is very important for us to know what our customers think about us. We aim to provide a first class service but we do realise that there may be times when people feel that the service we provide could be better. This survey gives us an opportunity to take account of our customer’s views”.
The draw took place at the Mid Argyll & Kintyre Area Committee in December.
Angela Burnett from Inveraray is pictured below with Alex Westerby, Customer Services Assistant, Mid Argyll, with her winning voucher.
Hannah McManus was our winner from Campbeltown.
Our thanks to everyone who gave us their views.
ACHA is about to issue a postal questionnaire to all tenants covering every area of service.
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ACHA Provides Resources to Assist the Council with Pavement Gritting
12 January 2010
Since Thursday 7th January ACHA has been providing resources to assist the Council in pavement gritting in the Oban and Lorn, Helensburgh and Lomond and Bute areas.
Two Association tipper trucks and six workers have been made available by the Association to get salt and grit to communities which, to date, have had no, or little, resources to make pavements safe.
An ACHA spokesman said “We have had the worst winter weather conditions in 30 years and this has put enormous pressure on Council resources. The Association, in those circumstances, offered these resources to the Council and it was felt that the most impact could be made by ACHA getting salt and grit to housing schemes and villages to assist in pavement gritting.”
The spokesman further added “We are half-way through a 4 day programme to get salt and grit to areas that don’t have it. On Monday of next week we will review where we are and if required we will continue to work with the Council in the interests of public safety.”
Photo caption 1; ACHA staff assist with gritting at Hood Court/West King Street, Helensburgh
Photo caption 2; ACHA staff assist with gritting at Lonruadh, Appin
Photo caption 3; ACHA staff assist with gritting at Glebe Terrace, Rothesay
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ACHA Call for Good Neighbours During the Cold Snap
5 January 2010
Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) today called for residents to check that their neighbours were all right during the current freezing conditions. The Association has today, through its eight office network, started a phone round to try and ensure that residents who live on their own and may be vulnerable to the severe weather conditions are contacted to check that they are okay. Contact details for offices are as follows;
Helensburgh & Lomond 01436 658700
Cowal 01369 708688
Bute 01700 501314
Mid Argyll 01546 604800
Kintyre 01586 559055
Islay 01496 301312
Oban, Lorn & Isles 01631 567962
Mull 01688 302051
An Association spokesperson commented “The severe weather conditions have been with us since the 19th December. Outside conditions are very difficult and it would appear sub-zero conditions are set to continue. The Association would ask residents to check on their neighbours, particularly if they haven’t seen them, and not to hesitate to contact their local ACHA office if they have any doubts about anyone’s wellbeing.”