Up to 200 lock up and garage sites could be demolished in Dundee, it has been said.

Following an investigation by housing chiefs, it was revealed that of the 898 council-owned sites in the city, 30% do not cover their costs, while many remain unpopular with people because of their location, condition and concerns over security.

The report, by director of housing Elaine Zwirlein, said there are locations that are fully occupied and fit-for-purpose, therefore needing no action taken. However, there are empty units which need significant repair work. In some areas where there is more than one block of lock ups on the same site or in the same locality, condition was found to be generally good, but the number of them makes it difficult to let out empty ones. In other cases, blocks were said to be 'unsuitable' due to high vacancy rates, a lack of demand, vandalism or disrepair. Of these unsustainable blocks, the report suggests they should be demolished.


The report, which recommends keeping 718 lock ups and garage sites and demolishing 184, is due to be discussed by Dundee City Council's Housing Committee next week. Where a site has been suggested for demolition, consideration will be given to alternative uses for the land.

John Alexander, convener of the council's housing committee, said: "Many locations are fit for purpose, popular and in demand and we will continue to maintain and invest in these.

"But where lock ups and garage sites are unpopular there is no point in us continuing to maintain them when the money we save could be put to better use in other places where residents tell us they like and will continue to use the lock ups.

"Many lock up users that we spoke to as part of the investigation supported demolition as a positive way forward."

(JP)