Agenda item

Report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

Members received a report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services in respect of progress made on fire safety matters since the last update reports submitted in July, September and November 2017. Members noted that all immediate works had been completed, the risk assessment reports from Frankhams had been returned, and an action plan was being prepared.

The Assistant Director advised that the hard-wired alarm had been installed at Great Arthur House but around 30 residents have not provided access to their homes. This means that although the alarm system is functional, there is no individual detection or alarm system in those flats where access has not been granted. Members noted that residents were likely to be in breach of their lease/tenancy agreements by continually withholding access and the Fire Brigade had offered their support.  Members were concerned as to why these residents continually refused and suggested that they might be more receptive to a visit from a Fire Brigade officer, rather than a City of London Corporation officer.  A Member of the Sub Committee kindly offered to call on all remaining residents.  Members noted that Great Arthur House’s compartmentation issues were to be the subject of a further Committee report and a summary of the action plan was set out in this report.  The Assistant Director advised that he was due to meet with the LFB shortly to confirm the installation of the new fire alarm system and to agree to the removal of the ‘Walking Watch’.   

Members noted that recruitment was underway for additional resources to undertake tenancy visits, using agency staff who would be readily available, and the team would be managed by a seconded Community and Children’s Services Manager.  The Assistant Director offered to share the checklist and questions with Members and invited their comments.

In respect of fire safety doors, the Assistant Director advised that they could be fitted with letter boxes, although the use of centralised post reception points was becoming more popular.

The Assistant Director advised that Counsel’s opinion, in respect of re-charges to Leaseholders, was being actioned and Members asked for an update as soon as possible.

RESOLVED, that the report be noted.