UNDER fire housing chiefs are facing demand for an investigation into Broomhill's £7m biomass heating system after residents were left without heating or water eight times this winter.

People living in Prospecthill Court were recently forced to rely on boiling kettles for four days as the system went down yet again.

Councillor Colin Jackson, whose ward takes in the block, has accused River Clyde Homes of failing their most vulnerable tenants.

He is now calling on the housing association's chief executive Keith Scarlett and his board to take action.

There have been constant problems with the heating and water supply to Broomhill since it was switched to the biomass system four years ago.

But despite repeated breakdowns River Clyde Homes insist there is no issue and their 600 customers on the estate are enjoying the benefits of the system.

Cllr Jackson, who is campaigning together with Labour colleague Michael McCormick on the issue, said: "This is not only affecting our most vulnerable elderly residents but also families with young children.

"Prospecthill Court was without heating or hot water for four days.

"People had to take their babies elsewhere to get bathed.

"I have written to our MP, MSP and councillors on the board of River Clyde Homes.

"I have written to Kevin Scarlett requesting engineer reports and an investigation into why this seven million pound boiler keeps breaking down.

"I have yet to receive any explanation or any assurances.

"I have had so many calls from residents who are utterly frustrated and fed up with never-ending problems."

The most recent breakdown prompted 12 calls in an hour to Councillor Jackson from different parts of Broomhill.

He Jackson added: "Two years ago I requested RCH update their vulnerable tenants register to identify those who may require emergency heating in the event of the biomass failing.

"But no one has been contacted directly by RCH when the heating has failed.

"On one occasion the only heaters handed out were the ones I requested."

Councillor McCormick also expressed his concerns over the reliability of the biomass system.

He said: "This system was introduced to fight fuel poverty.

"When it works it is very cheap and energy efficient.

"But when it breaks down people are having to run electric heaters, and that costs them more money."

The Tele raised the local councillors' concerns and demands for an investigation with River Clyde Homes.

In response, Richard Orr, senior project manager at River Clyde Homes, said: "The biomass system has not failed at since Christmas.

"A burst pipe in the area caused an issue to the pressure of a small number of customers, however, this was resolved the same day.

"Over 600 customers continue to enjoy and benefit from the system which also contributes to a cleaner environment for everyone."

"Any customers who have any questions can contact our dedicated staff on 0800 013 2196."