Assurances over flats’ fire safety

Renfrewshire Council has reassured residents living in high rise flats they are safe after fire ripped though a London tower block.

A blaze tore though a 27 storey block in Grenfell killing at least 17 people, with fears raised that cladding on the building made the fire spread.

The council says it works with the fire service and other bodies to ensure that all its high rise building meet regulations.

Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “Our thoughts are with those affected by the tragic fire in London.

“I would like to provide reassurance to the tenants and residents of our 14 multi-storey flats.

“Renfrewshire Council works closely with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ensure the safety of occupants.

“Regular fire safety inspections are carried out by the fire service, and our housing concierge and caretakers regularly inspect each of the blocks to ensure that a range of fire safety measures are in place.

“I know there has been some concern expressed in the media about the possible role of new over-cladding in the spread of the London fire.

“However, I can confirm that all works on Renfrewshire high rise housing blocks, including over-cladding, comply with Scottish Building regulations and materials used are designed to be fire retardant.

“We provide residents with up-to date advice on what to do in the event of a fire, and we are writing to all residents in our high rise housing blocks to remind them of this information.

“If any resident has concerns, I would encourage them to contact us on 0300 300 0222.

“In addition, Scottish Fire and Rescue offer a free home fire safety visit which can be arranged by calling 0800 0731 999.”