150 Brechin homes damaged by Storm Babet flooding in 2023 to be demolished

Angus Council held a special meeting to consider options for the future of damaged homes, and the flood defences.

Ahead of the meeting, councillor George Meechan said the local authority recognised how difficult the continuing uncertainty had been for residents.

“Unfortunately, there is no simple solution that will meet everyone’s needs in this area, and councillors must carefully consider the impact on wider Angus communities also affected by climate change,” he said.

Councillors have agreed to demolish a total of 150 homes, including 29 that are in private ownership.

Local Brechin councillor and deputy provost, Jill Scott, said the council knew that not everyone would be happy with the decision.

But she said it would “bring closure” for affected households.

“With today’s decision, the residents and council officers now have clarity in the next steps and while there is a lot of work to do, and there remain some risks in progressing this option, we can move forward together,” she said.

“I also want to stress that no-one is going to be made homeless by this decision. Our housing officers will support anyone into their next home, whether they are council tenants, private tenants or homeowners.”