A major renovation project is underway at a town in Angus, it has been announced.

New housing, landscaping and improved public access is to be developed at the Abbey quarter of Arbroath.

Safedem is now beginning the demolition of empty council flats at Guthrie Hill and Smithy Croft. The four blocks of flats will be levelled over the next four weeks.

After demolition works have been completed, 42 new homes will be built on the site.


Councillor Donald Morrison said: "The four blocks of flats have been unpopular as council housing accommodation for many years and become increasingly difficult to let. It's also considered that their close proximity to the abbey and High Street has had a negative impact on business, retail and tourism.

"Our housing vision is to create places that people are proud to call home. We plan to replace these flats with energy efficient low rise accommodation designed to complement the abbey and where people can enjoy living."

The design project has been developed by the council with funding assistance from the Scottish Government.

(LM/JP)