High-rise blocks on 24-hour fire risk alert

ROUND-THE-CLOCK checks of two housing blocks in Glasgow have been introduced after extensive Grenfell-style cladding was found on them.

Fears have been raised over the material’s fire resistance and safety measures have been put in place at the properties.

A letter from housing Minister kevin Stewart confirmed that 24 privately owned tower blocks in the city contain cladding similar to that blamed for the Grenfell tower blaze.

Glasgow city council has claimed that 22 of the buildings are low risk, but two are viewed as having extensive cladding.

Police believe at least 80 people were killed in the fire that engulfed the Grenfell flats in london on June 14.

Following the blaze, the Scottish Government ordered a review of all high-rises. No council-owned buildings north of the Border were found to have the combustible cladding, but a number of privately owned properties in Glasgow were thought to be at risk.

Now officials have identified two high-rise blocks which require additional support, though they have not made public their location.

If there were an incident at the blocks, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) would send an increased response and residents have been advised that in the event of a fire they should evacuate the building rather than remain in their homes.

the blocks’ factors have also increased concierge and security staff at the two properties so that at least three people will be on duty 24 hours a day.

Mr Stewart said Glasgow city council (Gcc) officials are ‘clear that the safety of residents in these buildings is a priority’.

he added: ‘Gcc will seek to reach agreement with owners and factors on the removal and replacement of the material used in the cladding system.

‘they will prioritise any required actions, working with owners and factors and the SFRS, to ensure a satisfactory conclusion is reached. the Scottish Government have offered the council ongoing support.’