Work is now well underway to transform Newmonthill, Forfar where five blocks of flats in the old, unpopular scheme have been demolished to make way for new homes.

Forth Demolition began work on site in March and is well on schedule to complete their demolition works in July. A separate contractor will then be responsible for erecting 18 council townhouses for rent, to be complete by November 2013.

Angus Council funding of £2.7 million is being supported by Innovation and Investment Funding of £495,000 from the Scottish Government, to deliver 18 new houses for rent, at a total cost of £3.2 million. The inclusion of sprinklers will increase home safety, whilst very high levels of insulation will combat fuel poverty by reducing tenants’ fuel bills.

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Convener of Neighbourhood Services councillor Donald Morrison said: "I'm pleased to see that the demolition work is moving on at a good pace and look forward to the new homes being built and occupied."

Councillor Morrison added: "The demolition of these flats represent the beginning of the regeneration of this area of Forfar.

"I'm sure Forfar residents will be looking forward to the rebirth of this site, making innovative use of the existing foundation and building some of the most energy efficient housing we will have in Angus.

"Thanks have to go for the hard work of previous conveners Jim Millar and the late Frank Ellis, also former provost and Forfar councillor, Bill Middleton.

"The new homes are sure to be very popular with those on our waiting lists and it will be a pleasure to see new tenants enjoying these houses."

(CD)