Kirsty Chatwood expressed frustration over the lack of respect for residents living in Cables Wynd House due to the infamous reputation attached to the building from the movie “Trainspotting”. The City of Edinburgh Council has been accused of violating tenants’ human rights by neglecting the A-listed block’s numerous issues, such as damp, mold, pests, and malfunctioning lifts. Despite plans for a multi-million pound retrofit project starting next year, residents remain doubtful, feeling neglected and unheard.
The Cables Wynd House Residents Group presented a detailed report to the council, highlighting the various rights being infringed upon, including the right to adequate housing, children’s rights, and the rights of individuals with disabilities. The majority of the flats in the 60-year-old council-owned block are subject to these deplorable living conditions. The discontinuation of bus tours outside the flats was a direct result of tenant complaints, further emphasizing the urgent need for improvements within the building.
Residents like Stacey Panda and Kirsty Chatwood have faced significant challenges with issues like black mold, anti-social behavior, and malfunctioning lifts, leading to a severe lack of accountability from the council’s maintenance service. Despite repeated requests for repairs, residents have been dismissed and given incorrect advice, exacerbating their living conditions. The council aims to address these concerns through a comprehensive retrofit project aimed at improving the overall quality of life for tenants in Cables Wynd House.
The unique architectural design of Cables Wynd House, resembling a “street in the sky”, once symbolized innovation in post-war housing solutions. However, the building’s deteriorating state has deprived residents of a sense of community and safety. Allan Mackie, a long-time resident, expressed his loss of faith in the planned refurbishment, citing issues such as mice infestations, deteriorating plasterwork, and ineffective repairs. As the council prepares to meet with residents to discuss the persistent issues, the hope remains that the retrofit project will bring much-needed relief to those living in Cables Wynd House
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