In line with Scottish Government guidance, Argyll and Bute Council will be resuming the Home Energy Efficiency Programme Scotland: Area Based Scheme insulation programme.
BCA Insulation has been appointed the scheme contractor and will be resuming external works from Monday 6 July 2020. Works that will be given priority at the restart of operations are those partially started in March and that were programmed for the Kintyre and Mid Argyll areas before COVID-19.
New works will be progressed in other areas of Argyll and Bute in due course. This is in line with Phase 2 of the Scottish Government’s Route Map out of Coronavirus and Phase 2/3 of the Construction Restart Plan. New surveys and internal works will be progressed as we progress through the Route Map.
BCA Insulation has put new working practices in place, in line with all Scottish Government and construction industry guidance to ensure safety of householders receiving works and the workforce. The COVID-19 situation is fast moving, Argyll and Bute Council and BCA Insulation will continually monitor and update practices in accordance with any updated guidance.
Councillor Robin Currie, Policy Lead for Housing, Roads and Infrastructure Services, said: “We don’t want people to miss out on this opportunity to have their homes insulated before Winter sets in again. It’s really important we get moving with the work as soon as possible.
“I also know it’s important to reassure everyone how seriously we are taking public health and safety and that national guidance will be followed carefully to ensure that householders and contractors are safe.
“Householders will be contacted by BCA Insulation prior to any works resuming. BCA Insulation will ask households if they are shielding, self-isolating, or have any symptoms of coronavirus, and works will be postponed as required. Should householders not wish works to proceed, they should contact BCA Insulation or Argyll and Bute Council and let us know. Works can be cancelled or postponed. There will not be an issue.”
The HEEPS: ABS programme aims to reduce fuel poverty in owner occupied and private rented properties, by installing insulation measures. The programme seeks to improve householder comfort, reduce energy bills, and reduce carbon emissions.