The work is necessary to extend the life expectancy of the buildings so they can continue to provide homes to local residents for years to come.

The programme will see significant works carried out to the interiors of communal areas and exteriors of the blocks at Pomarium, Market, Milne, Lickley, and Potterhill. This will enhance the interior areas of the blocks and transform how the blocks look on the outside. Planned work includes upgrading external wall insulation, roof coverings, balconies, handrails, walkways, balustrades, passenger lifts, and fire safety measures.

Perth and Kinross Council plans to carry out the programme of works through a phased approach starting with Blocks 7-51 and 52-95 Pomarium Street, followed by Lickley, Milne and Market Courts and Potterhill as the final block.

Scaffolding will be erected around 7-51 Pomarium Street over the next few weeks as the improvement programme gets underway. Work on the block is scheduled to be completed by May 2026. Work will begin in August on 52-95 Pomarium Street, which is scheduled to be finished in April 2026.

The improvement programme will then move on to Lickley Court.

The aim of the works is to make all the homes safer and more comfortable to live in by: 

• Significantly reducing energy demand
• Improving ventilation to reduce the build-up of moisture, damp and mould
• Improving fire safety
• Making homes easier to heat
• Reducing carbon emissions
• Reducing energy consumption
• Extending the life expectancy of the blocks
• Improved internal and external visual appearance. 

The programme also aims to bring all six blocks up to the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).

A programme of engagement has been carried out with all residents and homeowners ahead of the start of the works. Homeowners are expected to meet their share of the costs, and the council has worked to put a range of options and support in place to help them if they need any assistance.

Housing and Social Wellbeing convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, said: “This represents a significant investment for the council, but the structural maintenance programme is vital for ensuring our multi-storey blocks remain safe, warm, and secure for current and future residents for years to come.

“The work will transform the blocks inside and out, enhancing the environment for both residents and the general population.

“It will massively improve the lives of people who live in the blocks. People who have bought their homes, and landlords, will be required to make a contribution and we have worked diligently to provide a range of supportive options for homeowners, including Scottish Government grant funding, flexible repayment plans and a buy-back option. Our aim is to assist homeowners through this period and help secure the future of their homes.”