Orbit Homes manages the residential complex that was formerly a brewery. The company bought the site in 2014 and started construction work in 2017 to convert the vacant industrial area into residential homes. Although flats started selling in 2019, a recent Fire Risk Appraisal of the External Wall (FRAEW) revealed that the cladding did not comply with the government's latest fire safety guidance.

A spokesperson for Orbit Homes said, “The safety of our customers is our number one priority.

"Following revised advice issued by the government regarding the management and safety of tall buildings, we have been carrying out detailed investigations of all our relevant properties.

“The inspection at St Anne’s Quarter identified that remedial works to the external wall of the building are required to meet the updated guidance.

"We will be taking several steps based on guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council, including enhancing fire systems and revising fire evacuation strategies where needed, while we coordinate a long-term remedial solution for the external wall system with the original developers.

“We have been keeping customers updated with our plans but encourage them to reach out to us directly with any questions they have."

It is believed tenants were sent a letter by the management company telling them to be “prepared for any potential evacuation should a temporarily enhanced fire alarm system be activated while works are carried out”.

The developers are expected to cover the costs of fixing the issues, and tenants are not required to pay anything. The remediation process is expected to take some time and will involve various stages.

View the SOURCE here.

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