Around 450 blocks of flats owned by Perth & Kinross Council have been fitted with new secure door entry systems under an improvement programme.

The scheme to install secure doors on blocks has been ongoing for the last five years. Phase 4 of the programme, which involves 115 blocks and will cost over £1 million, will be completed this month.

Housing and communities convener, Councillor Peter Barrett, visited some blocks in North Muirton, Perth, where secure door entry systems have recently been installed.

He said: “The security and safety of tenants and residents who live in these blocks is of utmost importance to the council. This improvement programme means people who live in the blocks now have control over who comes in and out of their close.

“There have been a few incidents in the past where problems have been caused in closes by people who should not have been there. These new systems will help prevent this and also give residents general peace of mind.

“All the blocks who have the new secure door entry systems now comply with the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. This has been a major investment by the council which will improve the lives of the people who live in the blocks. This work represents only a part of the council’s Capital Improvement Programme.

“At the moment there are ongoing projects to replace windows and doors, install central heating, upgrade kitchens and bathrooms and improve energy efficiency in our housing stock. This is what tenants have told us is a high priority for them, and it means we will continue to have some of the best social housing in Scotland.”