The Local Government Association has responded to the latest fire safety test results on cladding and insulation by reassuring council tenants that their safety remains the top priority.
The LGA is also asking Government about what powers will be made available to councils to ensure landlords of other affected high-rises carry out necessary improvements as quickly as possible.
Cllr Simon Blackburn, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Only one council owned block is affected by this latest fire safety test, and the cladding was removed a month ago.
"The rest of the buildings affected by this latest test are all owned by housing associations, private and other landlords.
“Of all the buildings with a combination of cladding and insulation which has failed one of the three fire tests announced so far, we understand 45 are owned by 15 councils. These councils have already taken steps and put in measures to reassure residents about safety, which includes replacing materials on their high-rise blocks affected.
“Councils want to ensure all residents in their local area are safe in their homes, regardless of whether they own the block or not. There are concerns that other landlords in some areas are not acting as quickly to inform residents about test fails and lack the urgency shown by councils to identify their buildings with the cladding and insulation systems which have failed the three tests so far and take steps to make them safe.
“We are seeking clarity from the Government about the powers available to councils to help encourage landlords to take such action.
“With test fails affecting buildings owned by a range of different landlords across the country, it is clear that the current building regulation system has failed. We need a commitment from government that it will meet the exceptional cost to councils of removing and replacing cladding and insulation on high-rise blocks as a result.”
