New chair takes up post as Barrhead turns 40
Chief executive Lorna Wilson
There was a strong turnout at Barrhead Housing’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) as the association celebrated its 40th anniversary.
Tenants, factored homeowners, stakeholders, including Police Scotland and East Renfrewshire Council, and team members attended the AGM, which was John Hamilton’s final as chair before passing on the baton to Alan Oliver.
The team reported that Barrhead Housing invested £3.4 million over the year in improving existing homes and the supply of more affordable housing.
The AGM also heard community and partnership work had generated an independently audited £9.4m in social value, benefiting more than 800 people.
Alan Oliver
Lorna Wilson, chief executive, noted: “The meeting provided the perfect opportunity to reflect on our journey, achievements and the people and communities who have shaped Barrhead Housing over the past four decades.”
John Hamilton, who had been chair since 2021, will continue as a board member. “The evening,” he said, “had a real sense of community and provided an opportunity to celebrate the relationships and partnerships that have underpinned the work of Barrhead Housing over the years.”
In thanking John for his service as chair, Mr Oliver - a board member for the past four years - praised his leadership and contribution over the past five years, describing it as “immense”.
Mr Oliver, Barrhead raised and a civil engineer with Transport Scotland, added: “A strong theme throughout the evening was that people, relationships, connection and community remain at the heart of Barrhead Housing.”
Looking to the future, the new chair reinforced Barrhead Housing’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable properties, as well as continuing to invest in existing homes and supporting customers and communities.
To mark the 40th anniversary celebrations, local entertainers Geez a Break sang “Songs of the Silver Screen”, taking guests on a musical trip down memory lane with memorable songs from the movies.

