Residents of Churchmans House, an apartment block in Ipswich identified as posing a "high and not tolerable" fire risk, have been granted temporary relief from eviction as repair works are initiated. Following a safety inspection in July 2023, the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service issued an enforcement notice that allows tenants on the upper three storeys to remain in the building until January 8, 2026. This decision alleviates significant anxiety for tenants who were previously at risk of being displaced during repairs.
Chu Man, representing the Churchmans House Residents Management Company, expressed relief at the news, confirming that while they still need to finalize some details with the Building Safety Regulator, they are demonstrating progress with the ongoing works. Man emphasized the hope that the timeline for both internal and external repairs will align to minimize disruption for the residents.
The necessity for these repairs was underscored by the earlier evacuation of the Cardinal Lofts tower block in March 2023 due to identified safety concerns. Subsequent inspections revealed similar hazardous conditions in Churchmans House, including combustible cladding, the absence of fire barriers, and insufficient fire protection measures around structural elements. In response, the building underwent significant safety modifications, including a costly 24-hour waking watch and the installation of an alarm system costing £75,000.
Moreover, the government's announcement in September regarding financial support for replacing dangerous cladding on the building offered further assurance to residents, who are eager for a swift resolution to the safety issues. Man stated a primary goal is to secure the safety of the building, with hopes that property values will stabilize following the resolution of these complications.
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