IT has taken nearly four years of work - but now a partially-collapsed tenement block is nearly ready for displaced residents to return home.

In October 2017 householders from 127 and 129 Albert Road were horrified as Storm Ophelia caused the front of the building to crumble.

Glasgow Times: Rebuilt flats at 127 and 129 Albert Road, Govanhill Picture: Colin Mearns

Following structural concerns, the historic Crosshill tenement had been lying empty for a year but the sudden collapse still came as a shock to those who lived there.

But specialist groups from Glasgow City Council's Housing Investment, Technical, and Private Sector teams have worked to ensure the building is restored.

Glasgow Times: Building Collapse on Albert Road Picture: Mark Gibson

A Glasgow City Council spokesman said: “Following damage to the front façade of this tenement building in October 2017, council officers from a number of our specialist housing teams ensured statutory repairs were made to the property.

"This is another example of the officers in these teams working to save historic Glasgow tenements and working with owners to regenerate inner city areas."

Glasgow Times: Rebuilt flats at 127 and 129 Albert Road, Govanhill Picture: Colin Mearns

In October last year we told how work was finally ready to get underway in the November and was set to take 24 to 26 weeks to complete.

Repairs were hit with delays when the residents' insurance company rejected their claim, meaning an appeal had to be lodged against the decision.

Council bosses had previously said the building would be restored by May 2019 but this work was held up due to "complications".

Glasgow Times:

It has previously apologised in a letter to residents, which read: "I apologise for the delays in this process, however, I hope the neighbouring residents can understand that the situation is complicated and that every effort and support is being given to the owners of this property to try and save their building."

Local authorities have powers under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 to take enforcement action when some or all owners fail to agree to take part in a repair project or maintenance scheme.

Glasgow Times: The collapsed building on Albert Road Picture: Jamie Simpson

Under that legislation local authorities have statutory powers they can use to facilitate or execute works in relation to common repairs.

Local councillor Soryia Siddique said: "From what can be seen, the storm damaged Albert Road building refurbishment appears to be making progress.

Glasgow Times:

"I look forward to its completion and the residents returning to their homes.

"Thanks to everyone who contacted me on the importance of preserving the building, including Glasgow City Council, which has ensured the building is saved."