Council chiefs aim to reach out to give tenants a bigger voice

Young voices and input from a panel will form part of a new strategy aimed at giving Angus Council tenants a more meaningful say in tackling issues and decision-making.

In a move welcomed by councillors, a tenant and community engagement strategy has been given the go-ahead to build on work already done, with officials determined to forge links with “harder to reach groups”.

Service leader John Morrow told members of the communities committee that a tenants group already exists and the current strategy had involved Angus residents in initiatives including the Three Streets Carnoustie community appraisal and regeneration of Arbroath’s Timmergreens housing area.

“At a time when there are so many ways of communicating, it’s more important than ever that we find ways for people to get involved that suits them,” he said.

“We really do need to encourage more people to become involved.

“We are becoming a smaller organisation, but one that is better, leaner and more sustainable.

“What hasn’t changed is that we still have the same strong commitment to our tradition of involving tenants in our decision-making.”

Kirriemuir SNP councillor Julie Bell welcomed the strategy.

“I am pleased to see this come forward,” she said.

“A lot of the work that goes on in engaging with communities goes unnoticed at times.

“I’m hopeful that this will help them realise this is part of how we engage with our tenants.”