FLAMMABLE cladding is not used on Rugby’s tower blocks, which comply with fire safety standards and are regularly inspected, Rugby Borough Council (RBC) has assured residents in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster.
Concerns over high-rise flats in Biart Place and Rounds Gardens were raised by a spokesman for Rugby Green Party after last Wednesday’s (June 14) fire in west London – the deadliest fire in mainland Britain for over 100 years.
Roy Sandison said residents of Rugby’s 313 high-rise flats needed reassurance.
He said: “Residents will be very worried.
“The Residents’ Action Group in Glenfell Towers reported concerns and said they were being ignored by their council.
“We are calling on RBC to immediately visit the tower blocks and ensure all fire safety measures are of the highest standard.”
He also called for a risk assessment on the tower blocks’ cladding – but a council spokesman said it was not the same as cladding used on Grenfell Tower, which is believed to have helped the fire spread rapidly.
He said: “At Rounds Gardens we have a non-flammable extra layer of brick which was put up for cosmetic reasons in 1985.
“All council high rise flats in Rugby comply with national fire safety standards, and are subject to robust and regular inspections throughout the year.
“All tenants receive a fire safety leaflet and in February we sent a new leaflet, High Rise Fire Safety, to tenants in our flats.
“Following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower we have received calls from tenants requesting a new copy of the leaflet, and these have been delivered.”
He urged tenants with concerns to call the council on (01788) 533533.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is also offering advice to local authorities.
A spokesman said fires like Grenfell Tower were extremely uncommon.
Chief Fire Officer Andy Hickmott said: “High-rise buildings are designed to prevent fires spreading. However, the scale of the Grenfell Tower fire is unprecedented in the UK and I am sure any lessons learned will be reviewed nationally.
“We work closely with local authorities and landlords to ensure high rise properties are legal and compliant.
“We have contacted all local authorities in Warwickshire to offer additional guidance. However, should the worst happen, please ensure you follow the escape plan for your building.
“If anyone has any concerns about fire safety, please contact your local authority or fire service.”
For more information visit warwickshire.gov.uk/firesafetycheck or call 01926 466282.
