A council has scooped a prestigious award for its programme that resettled Ukrainian families fleeing conflict in their country.

North Lanarkshire Council was awarded the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) housing award for 2024 in recognition of its swift, compassionate, and effective response.

In response to the Scottish Government’s request, 200 empty properties in two tower blocks were refurbished by the local authority, providing warm homes and essential services to impacted families.

The initiative was part of its Tower Reprovisioning Programme which has already successfully re-housed 1,000 tenants from 15 tower blocks.

Stephen Llewellyn, chief officer (Housing), said: "This is a fantastic recognition of our team’s dedication to turning around these properties to support those in need.

"This project not only provided homes but also helped create a sense of stability and belonging for the families in our communities.

"Our resettlement team has played a crucial role in aiding over 550 Ukrainian Displaced People, providing support in various areas such as employability and health access.

"This initiative has allowed families to integrate into existing communities while establishing their own identity within their new towns.”

The Scottish Government provided £6 million to refurbish Birkshaw Tower in Wishaw and High Coats in Coatbridge to provide a cost-effective alternative to hotel accommodation, assuring families had ready-to-move-in, furnished homes.