Defence Online

A successful pilot project to allow homes in Govanhill to be acquired and brought into the social rented sector has been awarded a further £2.5 million of funding.Within its first year, the South-West Govanhill Property Acquisition and Repair Programme has exceeded its two year target of bringing 80 houses into the social rented sector with the recent purchase of a 100th house.The acquisitions enable Govanhill Housing Association (GHHA) to take more control of the houses and make necessary improvements.The project has been funded by both the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council with £4.3m and £7.1m respectively so far. The additional £2.5m has been provided by the Scottish Government and will enable GHHA to purchase around 40 more properties.The project has been working towards addressing ownership issues, particularly those in the private sector, poor landlord practice, a lack of factoring arrangements and high tenancy turnover. Once the houses have been purchased by the housing association, it is a lot easier to make the necessary repairs and improve the living conditions.