River Clyde Homes’ 10th anniversary celebrations kicked-off in style last week when Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan hosted an event at the Scottish Parliament.

The Inverclyde-based housing association which manages almost 6000 homes and acts as a factor for 2500 owners, was established in December 2008 following a unanimous vote by Inverclyde Council tenants for a stock transfer.

The decade has seen housing in Inverclyde, as well as the skyline, change as thousands of homes have been improved, 500 new properties built and unpopular blocks demolished.

At the event in Edinburgh, Mr McMillan spoke of the difference 10 years has made to housing and the progress River Clyde Homes has made to become a customer focussed association that leads the way in Scotland for its customer involvement activities.

He said: “It was a privilege to have River Clyde Homes and some of their tenants at the Parliament to celebrate their 10th anniversary. The event was both an opportunity to look back at the improvements RCH has made in my constituency since 2008, but also a chance to look to the future.

“There are still some challenges when it comes to housing in Inverclyde, but without RCH many of my constituents would still be living in cold homes with sub-standard heating, insulation and windows, and those living in RCH’s residential accommodation can enjoy being independent whilst feeling secure in their own home.

“I therefore thank RCH for all their hard work over the last decade and look forward to making Inverclyde the best place it can be alongside them in the future.”

Cabinet secretary for communities, social security and equalities, Angela Constance, was a guest at the event and spoke highly of the association’s efforts to tackle fuel poverty and help those affected by recent changes to the benefits system.

Albert Henderson MBE, chair of the River Clyde Homes Board, welcomed guests and outlined the exciting plans for the next five years to build 750 new homes, meet the government’s energy efficiency targets and to develop the activities to allow for business growth.

Mr Henderson said: “It was a privilege to be invited to the Parliament Buildings for this event and we thank Mr McMillan for the opportunity to reflect on the last 10 years, but more importantly, to look forward to the future and the ambitious plans we have, the challenges we face and how we can continue to help improve lives and places.”