The five-year masterplan will see 140 properties demolished and replaced with around 128 new houses and “own door” flats of no more than two storeys.

But with a major private sector project already underway at nearby East Muirlands, Angus Council said a net increase of around 60 new affordable homes will result.

The estimated clearance and redevelopment costs amount to £26.2m with £7.5m anticipated from the Scottish Government towards the outlay.

The proposals have already received support from residents in the area and the council is working on a community-based letting plan to match the needs and preferences of tenants to the new supply.

Communities committee councillors unanimously approved the plan after considering a report by head of housing Stewart Ball which confirmed that five ex-council properties sold under right to buy legislation would have to be bought back by the authority.

“It is proposed that these properties should be repurchased at an agreed value through discussion and negotiation and only in the event that this was not possible would compulsory purchase orders be sought,” said Mr Ball.

The officer said the council will take into account the circumstances of existing tenancies, including rent-payment and anti-social behaviour for the rehousing programme, as well as criteria including overcrowding and medical conditions.

“Wherever possible, community sustainability will be maintained by helping existing tenants to remain in the area.

“At this time, no particular length of tenancy will be a cut-off point, as this will be determined when all applicants have made their choices known,” added the report.

“To support the delivery of the full programme it is proposed a Timmergreens Regeneration Partnership is established, with representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors, including tenants and residents from the development area.”

The Timmergreens regeneration will contribute towards the council’s new build target of 350 units over the next five years.