New phase of fire safety work on high rise blocks in Salford

Another phase of fire safety works is set to take place at nine council-owned tower blocks in the Pendleton area of Salford, as checks in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster in the summer continue.

Works began in communal areas on Monday (November 27), following improvements to the emergency lighting systems.

Further safety work is being carried out to each block to make the corridors and common areas safer including the replacement of some communal doors to comply with the most recent fire risk assessments.

Cllr John Merry, deputy city mayor at Salford City Council, said: “We want to ensure residents can enjoy all the benefits of an insulated cladding system which meets the highest fire safety standards. Disruption will be kept to an absolute minimum.

“In the absence of detailed national guidance we have had to make reasonable decisions based on the advice of the fire service and technical experts. The safety and welfare of our residents comes first and is our upmost priority.’’

“This is the first of a series of announcements, as permanent cladding solutions are further developed. We anticipate being able to communicate plans early in the new year with our PFI contractor, Pendleton Together Operating Lfd.”

Salford City Council announced on Friday, June 23 that cladding on the blocks would be removed in advance of the results of government tests.

Since then boards made out of a cement material have been used to cover insulation where cladding has been removed from the lower three floors.

Enhanced fire safety measures remain on all nine blocks, including 24/7 patrols.

The works will take place on: Thorn Court, Spruce Court, Beech Court, Plane Court, Salix Court, Malus Court,Whitebeam, Hornbeam and Holm Court.