Laura Sharman 16 June 2017

Safety review launched into hundreds of tower blocks

The Government has ordered an emergency review into tower blocks following the devastating fire at Grenfell Tower in London.

In response to the fire, the Government has also activated the Bellwin scheme to provide financial assistance to local authorities helping affected residents and businesses.

Local government minister, Sajid Javid, said he has already asked councils to provide details of how many similar tower blocks they have in their area.

However, he admitted the Government does not know how many buildings have been fitted with the same cladding as Grenfell Tower.

Mr Javid said: ‘As the prime minister has been clear, the Government stands ready to help in anyway possible. We’re determined to stand squarely behind the affected communities.

‘Funding through the Bellwin scheme will help councils support the community to get back on their feet.’

Housing minister Alok Sharma said he would be working with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea to guarantee all residents from Grenfell Tower will be rehoused in the local area.

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the Labour Party, said empty properties in the borough should be used to help re-home residents. He added: 'Some hard questions need to be answered. It cannot be right that in the 21st century a fire like this happens.

'It’s the responsibility of Government to tell us why the lessons of Camberwell, Southampton and Shepherds Bush have not been learned.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Biodiversity and Climate Resilience

Cherwell District Council
£68,930 - £73,320.50
This is a high-impact leadership role focused on delivering Cherwell's Climate Action Plan Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services

Cherwell District Council
£113,435.50 - £125,379 / Grade
This is more than a leadership role - it's an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Head of Chief Executive's Office

Cherwell District Council
£68,930 - £73,320.50 / Grade M
This is a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the Council Oxfordshire
Recuriter: Cherwell District Council

Short Breaks Community Officer

North East Lincolnshire Council
£28,142 FTE
This is a varied role where no two days will be the same. North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Casual Cleaning Assistant

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £24,796 Pro rata to hours worked £12.85 per hour
Are you looking for work that fits around your schedule and lifestyle? Casual Cleaning Assistants required post based at the Empire Theatre, Consett. Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner