Local authorities have been given the power to strip unsafe cladding from private residential buildings over 18 metres tall.

Communities secretary, James Brokenshire, said councils will be able to recover costs from building owners and would receive financial help from the Government if required.

The Government is also banning combustible materials on new high-rise homes, schools and hospitals.

Mr Brokenshire said: ‘Everyone has a right to feel safe in their homes and I have repeatedly made clear that building owners and developers must replace dangerous ACM cladding. And the costs must not be passed on to leaseholders.

‘My message is clear – private building owners must pay for this work now or they should expect to pay more later.’