At the first ‘virtual’ Special General Meeting (SGM), the members voted in favour of a resolution to transfer the Association’s property and assets to Caledonia Housing Association that will enable the regeneration to take place

A further meeting is taking place for members on September 23 to confirm this decision and members are encouraged to attend or vote by post. This will be followed by the Annual General Meeting. If the resolutions are agreed, this will conclude a key element of the legal and regulatory requirements for the transfer to proceed.

Votes were cast at the virtual meeting in person and before by post – under new regulations set by the Scottish Government in response to COVID-19. The results showed overwhelming support for Caledonia Housing Association to action its £30 million regeneration plans for homes and services in the Bellsmyre area of Dumbarton. The members supported the decision of the tenants who had voted 97% in favour in a ballot earlier in the year.

Louise Spence, chairperson of Bellsmyre Housing Association, said: “The members have given careful consideration to the implications and benefits of a transfer. We are confident that transferring the assets and becoming part of Caledonia is the right decision. The tenants want the improvements and it will give us the resources and experience to deliver real benefits as well as transforming the Bellsmyre estate to meet tenants’ expectations. We hope that the final vote allows us to proceed with the transfer.”

Julie Cosgrove, chief executive of Caledonia Housing Association, added: “I would like to thank the members of Bellsmyre Housing Association for their patience and understanding as we worked with the government guidelines and regulatory bodies to set up a robust and open procedure for the SGMs. All members have worked and engaged with us to make the transfer process possible in a sensible timeframe. The team at Caledonia is fully committed to the potential for and regeneration of the Bellsmyre estate.

“We encourage involvement in the final Special General Meeting and AGM on September 23 to confirm members’ approval for the transfer to Caledonia. This will be a ‘virtual’ meeting and all members have been contacted on how they can take part.”