A resolute West Lothian mum has finally won her 20-year battle to be moved into a brand-new home.
Kerry Macintosh, who bought her three-bed home in 2002, was absolutely heartbroken when she was told that there was a fault in the concrete that was used to build the property.
Kerry loved not only her home but also the Deans South area of Livingston and the mother-of-two has always held out hope that the area could reach its full potential.
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The homes in her community, however, were earmarked for demolition when the faults were pointed out and despite many people leaving the area, Kerry remained with her young family, often having to battle anti-social behaviour.
She had decided to stay after she felt that West Lothian Council had made a measly offer that did not match the amount she had originally paid for her property.
Over time, the area slowly began to fall into a state of disrepair but Kerry remained committed to finding a way forward that would benefit her family.
Now, thanks to house-builder Springfield/Wheatley Group, she will be offered a brand-new three bed home as part of a ‘home for a home’ deal that she agreed with the developers.
Springfield have vowed to invest in the area by signing a deal worth £9.7million to drive the regeneration of Deans South. Kerry will own the well-insulated, energy efficient home which will sit as part of this brand-new community.
“It is astounding that it has taken 20 years to get to this point and it’s hard to articulate just how relieved and excited I am,” Kerry said.
“It has been a journey to say the least and at times I have been demoralised and frustrated, but I have always been able to see the potential of Deans South and have remained resolute that I want to be part of the community.
“The team at Springfield – particularly Chairman Sandy Adam - have been amazing. They’ve been a fantastic support over the last seven years, ploughing on and finding a way forward when things were looking bleak.
“I cannot wait to get into my own, new home now and to help create the thriving place I know Deans South can be.”
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