Council’s pledge over high rise flats fire safety

Since the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in London, Renfrewshire Council has been working on a property review with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

This has been looking at fire safety measures and considering any enhanced arrangements at the council’s 14 high-rise blocks.

No cladding of the type at Grenfell is used on any of the flats and all materials used are in complied with Scottish Building standards.

All individual council flats are fitted with hard- wired smoke alarms and 60-minute fire-resistant doors.

Daily fire safety inspections are carried out by concierge and caretaking staff, with quarterly operation assurance visits to all blocks from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Fire alarms are fitted in communal areas in 13 blocks and systems are being established in Provost Close before the end of November.

Drop-in fire safety sessions were held at each block with Council Housing Services staff and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service officers answering any questions and concerns raised by tenants and residents.

Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of the council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “Since the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in London, we have immediately carried out detailed inspections and have been taking every available step to ensure the ongoing safety of residents and tenants in our high rise housing.

“As five blocks have not been re- clad in recent years, we commissioned further specialist tests to inspect the condition and performance of cladding panels at George Court, Gleniffer Court, Maxwellton Court, Nethercraigs Court and Provost Close.

“Findings from these tests have reported no issues with cladding on four of the properties.

“The tests have identified a material used as part of the George Court balcony enclosures which, while requiring no urgent action, is recommended be replaced.”

If you have questions, call 0300 300 0222 and select option 1.

To book a free home fire safety visit call 0800 0731 999, text ‘FIRE’ to 80800 or visit www.firescotland.gov.uk