Five East Kilbride families who were left homeless when a massive blaze destroyed their homes of 40 years have thanked the community as the houses were finally flattened this week.
The final brick fell at the terraced row in Whitelee on Tuesday, five days after the bulldozers moved in to tear down the gutted homes.
Sunday, October 20, marked one year since the day the houses were destroyed in an accidental fire leaving five devastated families homeless.
Heartbroken victims of the Whitelee blaze described the moment as “bittersweet” as they watched the demolition start 13 months on from that fateful day.
The heartbroken families, many of whom have lived in the street for 40 years, have been suffering from the unimaginable loss after a small fire in an upstairs bedroom developed into a raging inferno wiping out neighbouring properties.
Speaking on behalf of the homeowners, Donna Buchanan, whose parents Alex and Debbie lost their home in the blaze, said it’s been a “very emotional time” for the residents.
“It’s been a busy and very emotional time at the moment, we’re glad the first part is over.”
Donna added: “We’re currently trying to adjust to seeing the site clear, and our homes of 40 years no longer there.
“The situation was made easier by the amazing Central Demolition team appointed to clear the site. Jamie and the team have been our rock and have helped us throughout the demolition process. He has treated our homes with care and compassion, including keeping a close eye on coming across some very sentiment items.
“Central demolition should be so proud of themselves, they truly are an asset to the company.
“I am also sure our neighbours of Whitelee will be pleased to see things moving and no longer having to look at the devastation daily.”
After their whole lives went up in smoke, the owners faced more misery as they fought for their homes to be demolished, pleading for help from South Lanarkshire Council who insisted that they had no powers to intervene and force a demolition to take place at the private properties.
However, Sedgwick International now aim to reconstruct the five Whitelee properties. Plans have now been approved for two central 1.5-storey homes and three two-storey properties at either end.
It is hoped the families could return home in time for Christmas next year.
Donna added: “South Lanarkshire Council have approved our planning application, which we are delighted to hear and thankful for their response in such a timely manner.
“Hopefully moving forward, everyone will get back to Whitelee soon and start to piece back together our lives.
“We thank everyone who has supported us and the people of East Kilbride who rallied in our time of need last year. We will never forget what an amazing community EK has when people are in need.”
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