A Local Lettings Plan (LLP) is to be used by Perth and Kinross Council to help build and maintain a sustainable community in an area of Rattray set for regeneration.

Earlier this year, the Council said it was to renovate 15 empty properties in Old Mill Road, Rattray, and subsequently let the buildings to new Council tenants.

The work will help to develop and revitalise the area, as well as bring some much-needed social housing for local residents. The 15 properties will provide modern accommodation for families in three and four-bedroom apartments and houses.

The properties have been lying vacant for a number of years. Permission was previously granted by the Committee to demolish the blocks, but changing economic circumstances led to the decision being reconsidered. As a result of the recession, there has been a fall in private housing development and an increase in demand for social housing.

The Council's Housing and Health Committee will meet tomorrow (14 August) when it will be asked to approve the new Local Lettings Plan for Old Mill Road.

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New tenants will have to meet a number of criteria to be eligible for a home in the development, and those with a current or recent history of anti-social behaviour, criminality or breaches of tenancy will not be considered.

Applicants for houses will also be asked to voluntarily enter into a Neighbourhood Agreement. This demonstrates a commitment by the tenant and the Council to work together to ensure the area is effectively managed and maintained, and highlights the contribution that residents can make to tackling and resolving any issues that may arise.

Housing Convener, Councillor Dave Doogan, said: "This plan will regenerate the Old Mill Road area of Rattray and make it a place where families want to live, which is how we measure success.

"The renovation work will bring the properties up to a high standard, including eco-features such as wall, loft and under-floor insulation, triple glazing, energy efficient heating systems, heat recovery ventilation systems and energy monitors to help minimise fuel bills.

"The introduction of the lettings plan will make sure the refurbished homes are attractive to potential tenants and that there is sense of community and pride in the area. It will also protect tenants from any anti-social behaviour coming into the area, and create a positive, sustainable community.

"We will work hard to ensure the previous problems that affected this area are not repeated. This will be a brand new start for the Old Mill Road area, and I am delighted that we are pushing ahead with the project. It will bring valuable and high-quality social housing on stream in an area where there is high demand for family accommodation."

(JP/CD)