Concerns allayed over Wigan tower block fire risks

The Labour Party had raised concerns by claiming that around 974 people in Wigan are still living in flats with flammable cladding, almost four years after the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy in which 72 people died when material called ACM (Aluminium Composite Material) caught fire.

The estimation was reached by multiplying the number of high rise towers under Wigan Council’s ownership (seven) by the average number of households in each building (58), then multiplying again by the average household size (2.4).

The figure was released last week after MPs voted on the Fire Safety Bill including measures which would protect leaseholders in law from exorbitant fire safety costs that are not their fault. However, Wigan Council has today assured residents that none of the town’s tower blocks are fitted with the same cladding as that of Grenfell Tower.

Marie Bintley, Wigan Council’s assistant director for growth and housing, said: “There are seven high-rises in the borough which are owned by Wigan Council.

“The seven tower blocks, all in Wigan town centre, comprise of Crompton House, Derby House, Woodcock House, Mannion House, Brook House, Boyswell House and Douglas House. Records show that none of the buildings are fitted with the same ACM cladding and does not pose a safety risk.

“Furthermore, it’s common practice for fire safety assessments to be regularly carried out across council owned properties in conjunction with GMFRS and any appropriate works are reviewed and undertaken when necessary.”

Sarah Jones, Shadow Minister for Policing and the Fire Service said: “Safety should be the Government’s top priority, but almost four years on from the Grenfell Tower fire, hundreds of thousands of people are trapped in dangerous homes, that they can’t

sell.

“Residents are calling out for the Government to do the right thing, protect leaseholders in law, and let the innocent residents move on with their lives.”

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here and viewing our offers.