Replacing heating systems, rolling out energy efficiency measures, installing new doors and windows, increasing fire safety measures and progressing the tower demolition programme, are just some of the projects highlighted in Housing’s Capital Programme Budget for 2023/24.

Work is already well underway in delivering housing’s £314 million five-year capital investment plan and this year’s programme will see further investment and regeneration across North Lanarkshire.

One of North Lanarkshire Council’s key priorities is ensuring its homes are as energy efficient as possible. By embracing carbon neutral technology the council is making homes more comfortable and affordable for tenants while working towards its ambitious net zero targets.

To achieve this, the council is replacing existing heating systems based on their age and installing gas condensing boilers. Unlike the older models the new systems regulate energy usage when not needed and help users save money on their energy bills.

During 2022/23 North Lanarkshire Council began installing solar (PV) panels and we’re planning to install more this year. These allow households to use any electricity the PV panels generate for free and then pay for any further electricity they need. Other renewable technologies will be used as appropriate, including air source heat pumps and we’ll increase cavity wall and loft insulation.

Delivering triple glazing windows, roofing and rendering works, carrying out electrical safety checks and rewiring and replacing kitchens and bathrooms will also continue.

North Lanarkshire Council said it is driving forward its tower re-provisioning regeneration programme with the completion of the demolition of low-rise flats in Shawhead and continue plans to demolish the high-rise towers at Coursington, Allan and Draffen Towers in Motherwell. Contracts have also been awarded for the demolition of low-rise blocks in Gowkthrapple and Jackson Court in Coatbridge.

Following the successful completion of the upgrading works to Dundyvan Gardens sheltered complex, design work will continue on upgrading plans for Phyllis Jane Court in Wishaw, with discussions taking place with residents later this financial year.

Brian Lafferty, chief officer, Housing Property Services, said: “Our budget aims to deliver ambitious improvement and regeneration across North Lanarkshire for our tenants and residents. We’ll continue to invest and improve our current housing stock, while providing the opportunity for wider regeneration plans, including tower re-provisioning.

“A key focus of our budget plans is to help tackle fuel poverty. By rolling out a range of energy efficiency improvements to our properties, we can support tenants in reducing their energy consumption, making their homes more comfortable and affordable.

“Many of our improvement projects are already underway and by building on this investment we’ll reinvigorate communities, improve homes and deliver benefits for our tenants and residents – all part of our ambition to make North Lanarkshire the place to live.”