Around 100 guests gathered including current and former board and staff members, tenants and other community members, elected representatives and partner bodies.

Bailie Annette Christie welcomed everyone on behalf of the Lord Provost and commended the Association on its achievements in improving housing conditions and helping to regenerate the local community since 1976.

In replying, Tracey Kernahan, the Association’s chairperson, thanked the city council and various government bodies that have provided funding and other support over the years. She also thanked everyone who had played a personal part in the development and growth of the Association.

She highlighted the central role played by local people in leading the Association: “Community control carries a responsibility: to listen, to ask questions and to make decisions in the interests of the people we serve.

“Our members elect the board, and those of us who serve on it have a responsibility to keep that connection meaningful. Thank you to everyone who has served on the committee or board, joined the tenant forum, or contributed as an Association member over the years.” 

Looking ahead, she said: “Reaching 50 gives us plenty to celebrate, but housing is as pressing an issue as it was in 1976. We desperately need more homes, delivering them remains difficult.

“We continue to look for opportunities to build, while investing in existing homes, providing reliable services, and responding to what tenants tell us matters. The Association’s work is far from done. What matters is that we continue to listen, take responsibility, and keep working to improve.”