Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) has recently completed a series of improvement works at Finbracken, Sandbank, bringing a fresh new look to the area.
The project was funded through ACHA’s Exemplar Estates Fund, established in 2020 by the Association’s Board of Management to enhance the environment and outdoor spaces surrounding tenants’ homes.
In addition to structural upgrades to the properties—including window replacements, installation of external wall insulation, and balcony improvements—the project also saw the reconfiguration of the car park, the creation of new drying areas, and the installation of modern bin stores.
A particularly sensitive aspect of the project involved two 45-metre trees that had become dangerously unstable, posing a risk to both tenants and the wider public. These trees held deep sentimental value in the community, having been planted in 1935 by John Gillespie to commemorate the birth of his twin daughters, Margaret and Mary.
Following consultation with the Gillespie family and local residents, the difficult decision was made to fell the trees in the interest of safety. While the community was saddened by their removal, steps were taken to honour their legacy. Twelve new trees were planted in their place, and a beautifully hand-
carved bench—crafted from the original timber—was commissioned with input from the Gillespie family.
To further commemorate the trees and their story, a plaque was created detailing their history and significance to the estate. This was unveiled, along with an information board, by Mrs Margaret Paterson (nee Gillespie), ensuring the memory of the trees live on.
