CLACKS Council has stated they have issued letters to the Tillicoultry residents evicted from their homes as a result of RAAC safety concerns – but the residents say they haven’t got them.

Three blocks of flats – on Chapelle Crescent, Park Street and High Street – have been left vacant since last October, with residents moved around in homeless and temporary accommodation.

The fate of the affected buildings has been a topic of contention over the past year, with Clacks Council awaiting reports from inspectors before coming to a decision.

Now, the council insist they have issued updates to the residents about the future of their buildings, but these are yet to be seen.

Councillor Jane McTaggart, spokesperson for housing and property with the council, stated on Tuesday, September 3 that letters had made their way to those affected.

She said: “I am pleased that affected local residents have been given a written update on this challenging situation.

“The council continues to recognise this is a worrying time for those concerned and can confirm that there is ongoing communication with those affected by RAAC and their representatives.

“We will continue to provide appropriate support and updates where available to those directly affected.”

The council-issued press release goes on to explain that the letter contains options for the future of their buildings.

No decision has been made on what will happen to the buildings – a paper was supposed to be issued to elected members during last week’s meeting of the council, but this was postponed.

This news has come as a shock to affected residents, who insist they have received no communication as of Thursday, September 5.

Grant Kerr owns one of the flats in Chapelle Crescent, the first block to be evacuated, and has stated he has yet to hear anything.

“It’s lies,” he said. “Nobody has received a letter with options – I certainly haven’t received an email or a letter through the door.

“How can you put that in a press release when they haven’t done what they have said they’d do?”

Residents’ confusions have been echoed by Wilson Chowdhry, the chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group.

Mr Chowdhry has been working alongside residents to liaise with the council on support and options available for the residents over the past year.

He added: “The lack of clear and honest communication from Clackmannanshire Council is deeply unhelpful and adds significant trauma to residents who are already highly stressed.

“These properties were sold without any disclosure of the cheap, crumbly concrete used in the roofs and now, these homeowners are paying the price.

“It is unacceptable that they are left in the dark, while the council appears more focused on public relations than addressing the real and urgent needs of those affected.”

Mr Chowdhry has also now scheduled a meeting with Kevin Wells, strategic director for place, to provide residents with a platform to voice their concerns and seek direct answers.