STUNNED residents were forced to leave their homes in Worcester at short notice after a fire inspection revealed dangerous cladding and issues with fire escapes.
Fifty two adults and eight children had to be cleared out of Barbourne Works in Northwick Avenue suddenly last week, finding themselves in need of somewhere to stay.
Management firm First Port, a 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. The gym was prepared as a temporary safe space but no residents had to sleep there. Al those who attended were found suitable alternative accommodation that evening.
Coun Jessie Jagger said: “I’ve now visited the site several times and have been in regular contact with residents who’ve reached out for help. I want people to know that I’m here to listen and do what I can to help.
“This has been an incredibly distressing experience for many, and I’m working closely with the team to ensure residents have access to clear information, practical support, and ongoing reassurance. I’ve been grateful for the calm and cooperative way that residents, officers, and partner organisations have responded.”
Coun Mel Allcott added: “This really did come out of the blue for residents. One moment it was a normal day, and the next people were told they couldn’t go back into their homes. It’s been such a shock for families and individuals, and we’re just doing what we can to help and be there for people.”
A prohibition notice placed on the building means it cannot be used for residential purposes until remedial works have taken place.
First Port said safety was the “highest priority” and it would provide support and regular updates to residents but no return date has yet been set.
The firm revealed the building had already been accepted on the government’s Cladding Safety Scheme – a fund that addresses fire risks associated with cladding on residential buildings.
