Agenda item

A Member raised a query regarding the lift replacement on the  Middlesex Street Estate.  Officers informed Members that in 2010, the City commissioned a detailed condition survey of the six passenger lifts on the Middlesex Street Estate. The survey was carried out by Butler & Young, a nationally recognised specialist lift and escalator consultant.

The lifts on the Middlesex Street Estate were installed in the 1960’s and are now over 50 years old. The consultant concluded back in 2010 that essential remedial works were necessary to comply with the relevant health and safety legislation and best practice.

The consultant made it very clear however that the completion of these essential remedial works would only extend the serviceable life of the lifts by a maximum of 7 years. Officers were entirely satisfied that the serviceable life of the lifts on the Middlesex Estate has now expired and can no longer guarantee their reliability and continuity. Officers were satisfied that all the options for the future maintenance of the lifts have been properly explored and the proposed extensive refurbishment and modernisation of the lifts is the correct course of action.

Officers assured Members that this decision had been taken properly and was supported by specialist advice and evidence that should carry considerable weight in the event of any legal challenge, and also confirmed that the Leaseholder’s Association had been provided with all the relevant information relating to our decision in this matter.