High flats are not a fire risk

SARAH HILLEY

Ayr’s high rise flats are not a fire risk.

That is belief from South Ayrshire Council housing experts after being questioned about whether the homes could potentially be a danger to those living there now.

Councillor Derek McCabe said there have been three fires at the Riverside multi storey flats over the last year but they have all been contained.

He asked for reassurance that residents living in the homes are safe until the time comes for the blocks to be torn down.

The council decided to demolish the three multistorey blocks partly because of concerns over the tragic blaze in the Grenfell Tower in London.

Officials estimated there would be up to £ 35 million refurbishment costs to carry out on “essential and advisable” works.

The council decided to find new homes for people instead after a consultation revealed 51 per cent wanted to relocate.

Councillor Derek McCabe said: “I want a reassurance that if the flats are coming down that they are safe in the meantime.

“It was stated there could be a fire risk. It puts residents in a state of fear. People keep talking about Grenfell.

“Residents are stressed out. It could be three or four years until the first brick is removed. The residents must come first. A lot of them considered the flats would be their last home.”

He said all the three recent fires did not spread outside the individual flats where the blaze started. He described the fire sprinkler system as “really good.”

Councillors voted to knock the homes down in June.

A building survey found the current cladding system, external pitched roof covering and the windows would need to be replaced.

It is understood housing staff have been in contact with residents about potential new homes.

Conservative Ayr West Councillor Derek McCabe put forward a question about the tower blocks at the council meeting last week.

He asked: “Can the council confirm that the Riverside flats are safe and not a fire risk?”

Labour Councillor Philip Saxton, responsible for housing, replied: “Yes.”

Councillor Saxton said he will provide more detailed information in the future for the residents.