Balcony concerns cause flat inspections

More than 50 flats in Blairbeth and Spittal will need to be surveyed for possible defects in their balconies.

South Lanarkshire Council confirmed the move after issues were found by workmen in two properties in the area.

The flats will have temporary props installed while the checks are carried out.

Daniel Lowe, executive director of housing and technical resources, said: “A possible defect in the reinforced concrete balconies of two of our flats was identified, so we installed props to ensure they were safe while we investigated all properties that are of a similar type to determine the repair requirements of their balconies.

“Almost all of the properties have been inspected and our survey showed that, to date, there are 58 flats requiring further investigation – although some of these do not themselves have an issue but are affected by the balcony above – and the relevant residents have been informed of the situation.

“We will be inspecting these as a priority to establish which balconies need to have temporary props installed as a precaution until the necessary remedial work is determined.

“As a result, we would like to reassure residents that there are no safety issues at the moment as long as they follow the advice given to them.

“A consultant engineer has been commissioned to determine the options that are available to address the problems with the affected balconies.

“This appraisal will be assessed over the course of the coming weeks and the council will discuss the proposals with residents.”