Scottish Council refurbishing 200 empty homes for Ukrainians at cost of £5 million

A Scottish council is planning to bring 200 empty homes back into use to provide homes for Ukrainians

North Lanarkshire Council will spend £5m of Scottish government funding to reinstate two tower blocks which were earmarked for demolition.

The flats in Airdrie and Coatbridge will be refurbished to “a high standard”.

The towers, High Coats in Coatbridge and Birkshaw in Wishaw, were being prepared for demolition as part of a council strategy, but will now be modernised with the first flats expected to be completed in six weeks.

Council leader Jordan Linden said: “The people escaping conflict in Ukraine face the most unimaginable circumstances.

“Across Scotland, so many have welcomed Ukrainian people into their homes and communities, and I am proud that we can play a leading role in the national effort by providing a large number of homes here in North Lanarkshire.

“I know that the people of North Lanarkshire will welcome those who face such an uncertain time with their usual warmth and generosity, and I am pleased that we can move quickly to assist.”

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