Worries over new spinkler proposal

TENANTS in high rise flats are waiting on a council decision over whether to install a new sprinkler system – at a cost of more than £2m.

The proposals, which could have a major impact on tenants’ lives in Wigan, were announced in the months following the Grenfell Tower disaster.

Bosses said it would put ‘minds at rest’ even though the town’s high-rises do not have the same fire-risk cladding.

A number of tenants argue the sprinklers are unnecessary.

They claim the plans are more about the town hall ‘covering its own back’ rather than acting in the interests of those living in the flats.

All views will be taken into consideration, council bosses have said, having previously attempted to allay fears the plan – backed by the fire service – is a ‘done deal’.

Among the reasons behind their stance is the potential for a highpressure water based system being installed in buildings riddled with water ingress problems.

Phil Harris, chairman of the High Rise Committee, said: “We could wind up in a position where the council is responding to multiple claims about water damage from one incident (of the sprinklers being activated).

“Every flat above here could damage this one.”

A report on the results of a consultation is expected in the new year.