Wendy Murray, a 58-year-old resident from Calton, Glasgow, has found herself in a precarious situation after being forced to evacuate her home on Stevenson Street due to safety concerns regarding an adjoining building, a former pub deemed structurally unsafe. The Glasgow City Council has offered her accommodation in the Alexander Thomson Hotel, a venue that has gained notoriety after nine individuals died from drug overdoses there during lockdown in 2020.

Murray expressed her distress regarding the council’s accommodation proposal, emphasising the inappropriateness of the hotel for someone of her age and vulnerability. “The hotel they have offered is totally unsuitable for a woman of my age. From what I have read, the Alexander Thomson Hotel seems unsuitable for anyone,” she stated, adding that she has sought legal assistance to secure alternative housing. Murray articulated her concerns, saying, “I’ve been thrown out of my own home and I have absolutely no idea who is going to do any repairs or how long it will take. I am at my wits’ end.”

As part of a wider issue, Murray is one of nine residents displaced following the discovery of severe structural damage in the neighbouring property. The situation has sparked scrutiny regarding Glasgow City Council’s responsibilities towards its residents, particularly in light of claims that the local government has not adequately supported individuals facing homelessness due to circumstances beyond their control.

Murray’s solicitor has sent a letter to the council, citing the Homeless Persons (Unsuitable Accommodation) (Scotland) Order 2014, which mandates that vulnerable individuals are housed appropriately. The letter pointed out that the council has breached this legislation on numerous occasions. It stated: “Having had to suddenly move out of her home through no fault of her own has had a tremendous impact on her physical and mental health.”

In a response to the unfolding situation, Glasgow City Council has been attempting to locate the owner of the condemned building to address the necessary repairs. However, the ongoing homelessness crisis in Scotland complicates matters further, as the city faces an increasing influx of asylum seekers alongside a critical shortage of affordable housing. Many individuals, including families, are being offered temporary housing in facilities that have faced criticism for their association with drug addiction.

The council maintains that it has provided, or offered, all available support to affected residents and contends that evacuations are only undertaken as a last resort when buildings are deemed hazardous. A council spokesperson noted, “Owners are responsible for their properties, and it should be understood that residents are only ever evacuated as a last resort when the building they are living in is considered too dangerous.”

As the situation develops, Murray’s legal representatives are prepared to escalate their efforts, including a potential judicial review if suitable accommodation is not secured. The ramifications of her case not only highlight her personal struggle but also reflect broader systemic issues facing vulnerable populations in Glasgow and beyond.

Source: Noah Wire Services