RIVER Clyde Homes are locked in a legal battle with British Gas over a major programme of work carried out on a Greenock high rise flat.

They are taking action after being forced to rip off the rendering on Prospecthill Court when cracks appeared on the outside of the building.

The major refurbishments were carried out only a few years previously, as part of the flagship £30 million regeneration programme in Broomhill.

British Gas was the original main contractor for all the work, which included new exterior in all three high rise flats on Ann Street, as well as the installation of a community biomass boiler.

But in July 2021 RCH admitted that the cladding in Prospecthill Court would have to be completely removed for safety reasons as well as replacing the exterior in the ground floor of both Broomhill and Whinhill Court.

Since then the registered social housing landlords have been pursuing the main contractor British Gas, while the building has been left exposed to the elements.

It is believed it will cost RCH around £6 million to replace the exterior facade in Prospecthill Court.

Councillor Colin Jackson, who has represented residents throughout, says the situation is unacceptable.

He said: "River Clyde Homes met with tenants and were told that when the work takes place it will lead the way in energy efficiency.

"But we are still waiting for the work to start.

"I have been asking questions to try to find out when it will go ahead and have been told they are looking at May or June."

In answer to a series of questions posed he was also told that while litigation is ongoing to try to recoup some of the costs of the original work carried out, RCH are also looking at other avenues for funding including grants.

RCH are remaining tight-lipped on the dispute.

A spokesperson said: “Litigation raised by River Clyde Homes remains ongoing."

But they confirmed they had spoken to tenants about plans.

They added: "A consultation with the tenants of Prospecthill Court has taken place to seek feedback on options for the block as part of our comprehensive design review.

"We aim to ensure the tenants voice is heard as part of this process and will provide direct communication to them on progress of the works when appropriate to do so.”

Centrica, who own British Gas, told the Tele they could not comment on the matter because as it is subject to court proceedings.