Saltire Facilities Management is refurbishing two tower blocks, which had previously been earmarked for demolition, to provide temporary homes for families fleeing the war in Ukraine.

The contract to provide electrical services in 200 homes in Coatbridge and Wishaw has been awarded by North Lanarkshire Council, which itself accessed £5million from the Scottish Government to fund the work.

On completion of the refurbishment of these 200 homes, Ukrainian families will be able to move out of hotel accommodation, and make themselves at home in North Lanarkshire until they are able to safely return to their home country.

The towers in Coatbridge and Wishaw had been earmarked for demolition as part of North Lanarkshire Council’s strategy to demolish residential towers and replace them with new and different residences. With the war in Ukraine causing a refugee crisis this was reassessed, and they have since been reinstated as homes which will be fully refurbished to welcome people escaping the violence over the next few weeks.

Saltire’s Electrical Division will be installing interlinked smoke alarms, new electric heating systems, and new hot water throughout the properties.

Councilllor Jorden Linden, leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said “Across Scotland, so many have welcomed Ukrainian people into their homes and communities, and I am proud that we can play a leading role in the national effort by providing a large number of homes here in North Lanarkshire.

“I know that the people of North Lanarkshire will welcome those who face such an uncertain time with their usual warmth and generosity, and I am pleased that we can move quickly to assist.

Managing Director of Saltire Facilities Management Alan Murray, commented “Saltire is a key employer in North Lanarkshire, and we have very close ties with the community. Our Electrical Division is really pleased to play a part in bringing these homes temporarily back to life, and we’re delighted to be working ever more closely with our key client, North Lanarkshire Council, on this important project.”