A total of 63 properties in Bo'ness and Falkirk are set to see improvement works carried out at a cost of around £1.3m with work starting later this month, a meeting of Falkirk Council's Policy and Resources Committee heard.

In Bo'ness, 28 properties in Corbiehall known locally as ‘The Coffin Blocks' will undergo a transformation with work including new slate roofs reinstating the original feature chimneys; new roughcasting finish to the external walls; new double glazed sash and case windows.

In addition, cavity wall and loft insulation will be installed to improve the thermal efficiency of the building and the properties will all benefit from brand new kitchens, bathrooms, central heating systems and new finishes to the walls and ceilings.

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The blocks were built in the early 1930s and designed by local architect Matthew Steele. They are Grade ‘B; listed buildings and work will also be carried out on the surrounding area that will see an upgrade of footpaths, fencing, bin stores and car parking areas with an expected completion date of April 2011 at an approximate cost of £900k.

In Falkirk, 35 properties in the Woodburn Street, Woodburn Road and Woodburn Gardens area will benefit from a number of improvement works.

Work on certain properties will include new roof tiles, roughcasting, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and new boilers at a value of nearly £400k.

Cllr Craig Martin, Convener of the Policy & Resources Committee said: "These are great improvements that will really benefit our tenants by making them more attractive and more energy efficient.

"It is particularly exciting to see the redevelopment of the historic Corbiehall properties in Bo'ness and they will blend in well with the ongoing transformation of the town."

In both cases, work will be carried out by Falkirk Council's own workforce.

(GK/KMcA)