RESIDENTS will be moved out of high-rise tower blocks at Biart Place because they have been built to a ‘poor standard’ and may not ‘perform as expected’ in the event of a fire or explosion, Rugby Borough Council has revealed.
A report due to be presented to a council meeting on Tuesday (April 24) recommends finding alternative accommodation for residents of the two blocks while they are repaired – or even demolished and rebuilt.
Survey work begun in late 2016 and concluded over the last six months found the blocks, built in or around 1968, were missing some strengthening steel angles which should have been added shortly after they were built.
It also identified a number of other construction problems, including corroding steel reinforcements, and carbonation – ‘concrete cancer’ – weakening concrete in ‘critical areas’.
The report adds that the structure of the blocks would maintain fire resistance in accordance with British Standards, and could also resist structural wind loadings.
A council spokesman added the risk of fire or explosion was reduced because there is no gas supply to the flats, and portable gas appliances are banned under the tenancy agreement. A recent change to a full fire evacuation policy has also reduced the risk to residents.
If councillors approve the report’s recommendations, tenants will be moved to new homes which ‘meet their needs’, and would also be compensated for their time, trouble and inconvenience.
A spokesman for Rugby Borough Council said: “The multi-storey blocks have stood safely since they were built around 50 years ago, and all previous fires within the blocks have been contained as designed.
“However, while we don’t yet know whether the blocks at Biart Place can be repaired or will have to be replaced, we do know that any repair work that would address the construction problems would be very disruptive and could not be carried out while the flats are occupied.
“Since we are going to have to find new homes for our tenants either way, we are asking councillors to allow us to press ahead and make all of the necessary arrangements as soon as possible. It is very important that we are able to give our tenants certainty and are able to work with them to find new homes.”
Of the 126 flats at Biart Place, 90 are currently occupied. Council officers have already visited them to understand the makeup of each household and any specific needs they may have.
These residents will be entitled to similar accommodation which meets their needs and a continuing secure tenancy where relevant.
Results of survey work on the multi-story blocks at Rounds Gardens are not yet complete, but early indications are that the issues are not as serious and potential remediation measures are not the same as for Biart Place.
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk to read the agenda and reports for the April 24 meeting.
The background reports that led to the recommendation will be published in due course, while a report to councillors later this year will outline options for the repair of the blocks or the potential for regeneration of the site.
