A sustained campaign by The Press and Journal has led to a breakthrough decision for homeowners in Torry, Aberdeen affected by reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), with the city council confirming compensation based on pre-RAAC property valuations.
The decision marks a major victory for residents whose homes plummeted in value due to the presence of RAAC, with many facing uncertain futures and possible bankruptcies, whilst reaffirming the power of regional journalism and campaigning to drive real change.
Over the past year, The Press and Journal and sister title The Courier, two of the UK’s strongest daily regional titles, have worked together to expose the scale of the crisis across their communities, amplifying the voices of affected families, and holding decision-makers to account. Their joint campaign, Trapped by RAAC, included public meetings with local journalists standing shoulder to shoulder with residents, calls for greater transparency and a historic shared front page, all aimed at securing fair valuations and justice for those impacted.
The P&J recently launched a new brand campaign that underscores the role it has played for over 275 years, standing alongside the communities it serves as ‘Your Voice of the North’, demonstrating the continued power and importance of trusted regional journalism.
Craig Walker, Editor of The Press and Journal, said: “This is a powerful example of our journalism turning a local concern into a national conversation and delivering real change. The residents in Torry found themselves caught up in a crisis through no fault of their own, and it was only by shining a light on their experiences - and refusing to let the issue drop - that this result became possible.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team, especially Lindsay Bruce, whose tireless reporting gave residents a voice when they felt they weren’t being listened to. Our collaboration with The Courier showed the strength of regional journalism working together for the communities we serve.”
“The P&J can and does make a difference. We stand alongside readers, living and working in the north and are impacted by the same issues affecting our communities. We are proud to be your voice of the north”
Lindsay Bruce, who led the campaign reporting said: “This was a campaign for and of the people. We simply stood with the tenacious homeowners who fought for themselves and each other. We elevated their voices and pushed for answers, compassion, and justice.
“This decision on compensation means residents and families go from facing bankruptcy and uncertainty to having hope. It’s the first chink of light for those under insurmountable stress.”
The Press and Journal will continue to monitor the rollout of the new valuation scheme and monitor the actions that follow the council’s decision. As part of The P&J’s “Your voice of the north” mission, the title will also be hosting community roadshows in November, inviting readers to share the issues that matter most and help shape future campaigns.
While this represents a significant result for RAAC homeowners in Torry, the campaign for residents elsewhere continues. Editor of The Courier, David Clegg said:
“The decision in Aberdeen is a real step forward for families living with RAAC. It shows what determined local journalism can achieve when communities speak with one voice. The Courier stood shoulder to shoulder with our sister title in making the case, and we will keep pushing for clarity, funding and a fair deal for every homeowner and tenant affected across our own patch. This campaign does not stop here.”