On Wednesday 23 September, Angus Councillors will be asked to consider the outcome of the Options Appraisal agreed on 25 June 2026 undertaken to determine the preferred approach for the future of Brechin’s River Street Area (BRSA).
A detailed options appraisal has identified Option 2B (i): selective demolition of the smallest geographical area, with the creation of an open space, without changes to the existing flood protection scheme, as the highest-scoring option.
The appraisal found that Option 2B (i) offered the best overall balance of community vision and wellbeing, flood resilience, affordability, value for money, deliverability, environmental enhancement and long-term sustainability. It concluded that options retaining or rebuilding housing within the floodplain would leave residents and the Council exposed to continuing flood risk, higher development costs and future maintenance liabilities.
If agreed, the proposal would create opportunities for new public open space, environmental improvements and increased biodiversity. The detailed design and future use of the space would be developed with residents, community groups and other stakeholders.
Residents, businesses, children and young people have contributed to the appraisal process and will continue to be involved in work arising from the final decision.
Leader Cllr George Meechan said, “We recognise how difficult the continuing uncertainty has been for residents, property owners and businesses in the River Street area.
“Unfortunately, there is no simple solution that will meet everyone’s needs in this area, and councillors must carefully consider the impact on wider Angus communities also affected by climate change. We hope that councillors will be able to agree a way forward that provides clarity for the people of the Brechin River Street area.”
“We will continue working closely with affected residents and the wider community. Their views, including the ideas put forward by children and young people, will help shape the detailed design and future use of the area.”
Further work would refine the costs of the final option, funding requirements, delivery arrangements and phasing of the project. A further report would then be presented to the Council before final decisions are taken on detailed implementation.
Council will also be asked to approve a strategy to acquire properties needed for the preferred regeneration of BRSA. Subject to the committee’s decision on which option is chosen, it could involve 21–44 privately owned homes, related land interests and four garages.
The strategy outlines that the council would in the first instance seek voluntary agreements, offering market value, statutory compensation and reasonable moving and professional costs, while preparing a Compulsory Purchase Order in parallel if agreements could not be reached.
Individual valuations and support negotiations would be undertaken by the District Valuer, with housing and rehousing assistance available to affected residents.
Estimated acquisition and related costs are between £2.1m to £4.1m, though final costs and funding arrangements would require further Council approval.