INVERCLYDE Council today described Sheriff Hamilton’s ruling as ‘a disappointment’ and said it will be studied closely before they decide what to do next.

A spokesman said: “This decision applies to six appeals and the sheriff has rightly pointed out that there is no agreement that any decisions will be binding on the other appeals which are currently sisted, or held in abeyance in court.

“This decision is not the conclusion of the council’s commitment to resolve the appalling housing conditions that exist within the estate.

“Clune Park has not become a better place to live over the course of these appeals. The buildings have not improved over the course of these appeals.

“Private landlords at Clune Park have not carried out any dedicated programme of building improvements or works on the buildings within their control.

“The council has a statutory duty to ensure that all substandard housing in Inverclyde is either improved to an acceptable standard or demolished.

“The council is also required to carry out regular surveys to ascertain the current standard of houses in the private sector in Inverclyde.

“All of the information available to the council, including further surveys of the Clune Park area since this case was heard, supports the council’s position that these properties suffer from major structural defects, are in 
significant disrepair, lack basic amenities and ought to be demolished.

“Residents and those with a positive interest in the area should rest assured that Inverclyde Council is committed to the long term regeneration of the Clune Park estate.

“We cannot stand by and watch Clune Park deteriorate even further.”