London,
29
June
2017
|
15:48
Europe/London

Wave of enhanced fire checks ordered for every Camden block

Every block in Camden will receive an enhanced fire safety check to ensure the safety of residents. Following Grenfell and the discovery of a range of safety concerns in tower blocks in Camden and across the UK, a new regime of testing has been ordered by the Leader of Camden Council.

Camden's new approach will test housing blocks and then results will be published for residents to see to ensure full transparency. Test results and progress on works will also be scrutinised by tenants, leaseholders and the Council's housing committee.

Councillor Georgia Gould, Leader of Camden Council, said:

"The UK needs a whole new safety regime. Years of cutting so called 'red tape' and the discrediting of health and safety have taken their toll and change is needed.

"In Camden I've ordered a comprehensive wave of safety checks - a new more intrusive and expansive fire safety scheme that covers all of our blocks. Grenfell changes everything for us all - the status quo won't stand and the government needs to follow by looking hard at its own policies on health and safety and building regulation.

"We're already out there checking blocks right now and this work will continue until we are satisfied that they are safe. I understand that this is a distressing time, not only for Chalcots residents but also for those who live in other blocks so we are moving as fast as we can to provide reassurance.

"Last Thursday it was tenants who raised these issues of concern to me. I greatly value the relationship we have and we will continue to work side by side with residents, to make sure they are safe."