The refurbishment of the Bathville flats in Armadale looks set for completion this September after lengthy delays and rising costs.
In a presentation to the local area committee housing officers outlined expected finish dates for the final two phases of the project which brings a new look to the area.
First planned in 2009, the project was agreed in 2011.
Since then the council has been dogged by problems over the poor conditions of the properties including the discovery of asbestos.
Plans to build new homes have had to be scaled back because of legal wrangles over land ownership.
Gillian Edwards from the housing department told local area committee: “The properties required significant investment as a result of ongoing problems with water penetration.”
The council faced lengthy delays over trying to resolve title deeds and initial plans to build 21 new homes were eventually revised down to six.
After asbestos was discovered in attic space in 2016 and 21 tenants were rehoused on a specially created programme.
The council has adopted a new buy back scheme for the ward to make up the numbers and add to council stock.
There have also been issues with contractors failing to complete work and delays too since the lockdown because of the Covid pandemic.
Outlining the positives the housing department report said there are six new-build properties, two of which are for wheelchair users.
Building Services has gained experience of new-build housing.
The external appearance of the blocks is transformed and fencing and bin issues have been addressed.
Resident engagement was positive in the early phases and the feedback from tenants who live there has been largely supportive.
The original project costs of £3.8m will have risen to £5.4m by the time the final phase is completed in September.
Local Independent Councillor Stuart Borrowman “I’m pleased the completion of the Bathville flats is in sight and officers are working hard towards meeting a target date of September.
“What matters is that current and future tenants in these flats have comfortable homes.
“But I do hope the project – first promoted in 2009 and 42 per cent over budget – allows the council to learn some lessons about project management and anticipating potential problems.”
