SOME of the residents forced to leave their homes in Worcester at short notice after a fire inspection revealed dangerous cladding are being allowed to return.
But the uncertainty continues for many.
A phased return for ground and first floor residents at Barbourne Works in Northwick Avenue has been announced by fire safety chiefs but concerned councillors say support must continue for those still unable to return home.
Worcester City Councillor Jessie Jagger said: “While it’s positive that some residents may soon be able to return, many still face huge uncertainty. I want to thank everyone involved so far, but we must keep working together to ensure clear communication, safe
accommodation, and practical help until all residents can return home safely.”
Anne Eason, one of the residents’ spokespeople, added: “We’re really pleased
that progress is being made and that some of our neighbours are hopeful
they can return. But for many, the uncertainty continues. We hope the
companies involved will keep working with us to find solutions and provide
the clarity and support we all need during this difficult time.”
Fifty two adults and eight children had to be cleared out of Barbourne Works suddenly last week, finding themselves in need of somewhere to stay.
First Port, the company appointed by Resident Management Company (RMC) to run the building, said concerns related to defects from when the former factory was converted 20 years ago.
Simon Cusack, group commander at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service explained issues were “essentially down to cladding” – a combination of timber cladding and an aluminium composite material, both of which were flammable.
The fire service also said there were concerns about residents getting out safely, if a fire broke out.
Worcester City Council acted quickly to open a rest centre at Perdiswell Leisure Centre on the night of the evacuation.
