RESIDENTS made to leave their homes following the discovery of RAAC more than a year ago will now be allowed to retrieve their possessions.

Homeowners and tenants from three blocks of flats in Tillicoultry had long been fighting for permission for re-entry into the flats.

Clackmannanshire Council had insisted that this would not be possible, due to the dangers that the crumbly concrete presented to residents.

Now, an arrangement has been made between the council and residents to allow for temporary re-entry.

The council has also agreed to hold a meeting for affected residents to let them voice their opinions on the options presented to them,

A spokesperson for Clackmannanshire Council said: “The council is coordinating with residents to organise retrieval of property from the homes affected by RAAC.

“This should take place within the next two weeks.

READ MORE: Greens MSP urges re-entry for possessions

“There will also be a meeting held at the council with the affected residents in a fortnight’s time.

“The paper considering the future of the RAAC evacuated properties is currently being prepared and will be brought to council as soon as possible.”

Re-entry had been a topic of contention for residents following the long-term eviction from their properties.

Last week, the Advertiser spoke with Lynsey McQuater about her experience being evicted from her home more than a year ago.

She explained that there were items of strong sentimental value still in her flats and retrieving them would help bring a sense of closure.

She commented: “I didn’t actually think that we would never get back home at the time. I always assumed that I’d get back home.

“There’s items belonging to my dad and brother in the flat and I want them most of all because they’ll never be replaced.

READ MORE: One year on: Lynsey's story of RAAC homelessness

“For me personally, for my mental health, I need closure. I want to be able to say goodbye.”

The residents have been helped considerably by the UK RAAC Campaign Group, who has been fighting for re-entry and a fair deal on their behalf.

The group is headed by Wilson Chowdhry, who held a meeting with Kevin Wells, strategic director for place, to discuss the situation.

Mr Wells explained to Mr Chowdhry that re-entry for residents would not be possible due to safety concerns, but that third-party access would be facilitated.

Mr Chowdhry added: “This allows homeowners to recover items that hold both financial and emotional value, helping ease the burden they’ve been under since evacuation.

“Progress has finally been made, and a crucial meeting with all homeowners has now been scheduled for 11 am on November 8.

This meeting represents a significant step forward after months of delays and uncertainties, and it will allow us to collectively address our ongoing concerns.”