We worked with Hilland Ritchie on an options appraisal study for approximately 1000 Winget houses in Carntyne, Glasgow. These houses are an early form of non traditional construction, employing a system of concrete blocks and posts. Although very popular some of the stock exhibits cracks, caused by the movement of outer walls and other contributory factors. The houses also have poor sound insulation.

The houses are currently owned by GHA and managed by the local LHO, Keystone Tenant Managed Homes. Approximately one third of the mainly 4 in a block and semi detached houses are owner occupied. The area has a settled and predominantly elderly population.

MAST worked with Hilland Ritchie to explore 3 options:

• Retention
• Reprovisioning
• Partial demolition and New build

The work was conducted through the Wingets Strategy Group and resident groups, formed to explore each of the options, with a high level of local consultation. The study was completed in Autumn 2005.

Following a recent pilot project, the outcome of which, has determined that the houses can be repaired to make them structurally sound. However, the issue of mortgagability has yet to be determined. A rolling programme of rehab is currently being considered by GHA, while a future new build phase of housing is also planned.