Issue - meetings

A presentation by Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive – Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA).

Alistair MacGregor, Chief Executive – Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) – gave an informative presentation detailing projects which had been undertaken by ACHA.

After his presentation, Alistair offered a question time to the group and the following issues were raised:-

Councillor Anne Horn enquired on ACHA’s policy in regards reparative work to owner occupiers whose property adjoined an ACHA property, and whereby damage had occurred.  Alistair replied that contractors employed by ACHA would work to the contract specification and ensure that any damage would be addressed

Bob Chicken thanked Alistair for his presentation and enquired if a breakdown on both the land bank units and the waiting list he had detailed within the presentation could be provided. Alistair replied that Yvonne Litster, Regional Manager would provide a breakdown on both of these.     

ACTION: Yvonne Litster would provide details of both to Theresa McLetchie who would disseminate this to MAKI LACPG members.

Lukas Lehmann informed the group of the Renewables ‘Rent a Roof scheme’.  Alistair was not aware of this initiative and enquired if Lukas could provide details for him.

ACTION:  Theresa McLetchie would provide Lukas with Alistair MacGregor‘s contact details.

Alistair reported on ACHA’s energy efficiency policy and potential small wind turbine developments on land owned by ACHA.  Glenn Heritage enquired if Alistair was aware of the Scottish Biomass Support scheme.  Alistair was aware of this; however he detailed concerns in regards the technology and level of liability. 

Councillor Hay raised the issue of homeless people being temporarily housed in local communities.  Alistair responded that when the Scottish Parliament had passed legislation in 2001 – Homelessness’ Act – this had impacted considerably onto Local Authorities.  Referrals for homeless people had become a priority, with Local Authorities needing to adhere to the Act.  The vast majority of these referrals did not present a problem or difficulty. 

Glenn Heritage enquired if ACHA were engaged in discussions around the Reshaping Care for Older People transition fund.  Alistair was aware of the ethos of this, but requested that Glenn provide more information for him.

ACTION:  Glenn Heritage would provide Alistair with information in regards the Reshaping Care for Older People transition.

The Chair thanked Alistair for his informative presentation.  He fully appreciated the many issues and problems which ACHA had inherited.  He extended his congratulations and thanks on behalf of the MAKI LACPG for the hard work and effort undertaken by AHCA and wished them every success for the future.