Maryhill housing visit with Tavish Scott MSP
Tavish Scott MSP took time out from canvassing in the Glasgow East by election yesterday to hear about the housing problems of Maryhill residents.
As part of the launch of his Liberal Democrat leadership campaign, he was keen to learn more about the concerns of local people. Katy Gordon, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Glasgow North, and Tavish visited Marie McDonald and her daughter, who bought their home in Maryhill under Right to Buy legislation several years ago. Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) are now in the process of knocking down all the housing in their area in a 12 year rebuilding programme and are dragging their feet on offering Mrs McDonald alternative accommodation.
Tavish said:
“This illustrates the need for investment across Glasgow and Scotland in affordable housing to take place as quickly as possible. I was amazed to find out that it’s going to take 12 years to complete this regeneration.”
Katy added:
“While there is a lot of focus on new affordable housing, it is also important to look after the homes we already have. A lot of residents across the constituency have problems with common repairs being carried out late, badly or overcharged for. Many tenants struggle to get deposits back from unscrupulous landlords.
“It is time to look at making it easier for residents and tenants to get their voices heard. Mrs McDonald has been in limbo for nearly 2 years now and it is time for GHA to resolve the situation.”
