PRESS RELEASE

Ballot begins for 320 Scottish Homes tenants in Port Glasgow	24th September 2001
Voting is now under way for 320 Scottish Homes tenants in Port Glasgow, who have the chance to transfer ownership of their homes to Port Glasgow Housing Association, paving the way for improvments and investment in their homes. An opinion survey of Port Glasgow tenants – carried out last month by an independent research company – indicated their support for the move. The month-long secret postal ballot, which began on September 14, will enable tenants to say whether they want Port Glasgow Housing Association (PGHA) to take over the properties in Devol, Boglestone, Bardrainney, Shore Street and Park Farm estates. PGHA’s proposals are being endorsed by Scottish Homes. The national housing agency carried out a detailed evaluation of the association’s proposal, which was felt to be the one that best serves the future interests of tenants. If the transfer goes ahead it will pave the way for much greater investment in the houses. PGHA are promising tenants local offices, increased tenant participation, a programme of investments in the houses and guaranteed rents in the first five years. Tenants can also look forward to greater certainty about future rent levels and a greater say in the way their houses are managed. Scottish Homes Community Ownership Initiatives Co-ordinator, Raymond Hodge said: “This is a good opportunity for tenants to consider their future. Independent advice has been made available to tenants and we hope it will have helped them make an informed decision. I’d urge everyone to vote – there’s still plenty of time, and if you don’t then your opinion won’t count.” Chairman of the Port Glasgow Housing Association Steering Group, Jim Lennon added: “We’re offering tenants the chance to see real improvements to their homes. It’s also a chance for them to get more involved, have a greater say in how their houses are managed and change things for the better. I hope everyone will exercise their right to vote.” Notes: The ballot concludes at noon on October 12 and it will then be about another week before tenants find out the result. Scottish Homes is currently transferring all its remaining houses to community ownership. Over 47,000 have so far transferred, with fewer than 5,000 remaining.
Claire Hider Tel: 0131 479 5172