High rise tower blocks in Coatbridge and Wishaw to be refurbished to house Ukrainian refugees

A Scottish council has announced plans to refurbish two high rise tower blocks slated for demolition to house refugees fleeing Ukraine.

North Lanarkshire Council plan to use £5m of Scottish Government funding to reinstate 200 previously condemned homes in Coatbridge and Wishaw “to a high standard”.

High Coats in Coatbridge and Birkshaw in Wishaw had been earmarked for demolition as part of a council strategy, however the new proposals could see refugees currently living in hotels move into their own homes in as little as six weeks time.

Council leader Jordan Linden said: “The people escaping conflict in Ukraine face the most unimaginable circumstances. Across Scotland, so many have welcomed Ukrainian people into their homes and communities, and I am proud that we can play a leading role in the national effort by providing a large number of homes here in North Lanarkshire.

“I know that the people of North Lanarkshire will welcome those who face such an uncertain time with their usual warmth and generosity, and I am pleased that we can move quickly to assist.

“Already, council staff are working with partners to provide support and advice to people from Ukraine in hotel accommodation, and that extensive work will continue when these homes are occupied.

“As Scotland’s largest council landlord, we are well-placed to deliver the reinstatement of these homes and I look forward to welcoming people over the coming weeks.”

Following the reinstatement of the first homes, the programme will expand in “the coming months” according to the council, with capacity for up to 200 homes.

Neil Gray, who serves as the Scottish Government’s minister for Ukrainian refugees, welcomed the move.

“We appreciate this contribution from North Lanarkshire Council. These homes will play a vital role in providing longer term accommodation and support to displaced people from Ukraine,” he said.

“The council is to be commended for recognising the importance of assisting national efforts to home thousands of people fleeing the illegal war in Ukraine.

“The Scottish Government and partners are providing practical support and a welcome to more than 4,500 displaced people through our super sponsor scheme.

“Ensuring we have a supply of safe, secure homes in partnership with councils, housing partners and individual host volunteers is a vital part of this work, and we are grateful to everyone who is supporting this.”