Entire council estate told they must move out after fire risks ‘worsened’

Residents in an estate have been told they must move out of their homes after a fire safety assessment found that risks had “worsened”.

Yesterday, Southwark council sent letters informing residents of the remaining three Ledbury Towers in Ledbury Street, Peckham, that they must move out as soon as alternative accommodation is found for them.

There are currently 131 households living in the Skenfrith, Peterchurch and Sarnesfield tower blocks. The estate houses 98 temporary accommodation tenants, 18 council tenants and 15 are leaseholders.

Councillor Sarah King, cabinet member for council homes, said: “This must have come as a shock for everyone living at Ledbury estate. 

“I have so much sympathy for residents who have to uproot themselves from their homes much sooner than expected, but their safety has to be our first priority and it’s not something we can compromise on.”

The move comes after the council carried out a fire risk assessment which found that existing problems with the three tower buildings have worsened. 

In 2017, emergency work was carried out in the blocks because of major issues found in the structure of the buildings. This included the removal of the gas supply and introduction of the waking watch.

In 2021 it was decided that the Ledbury towers would be demolished and replaced with high-quality homes. Whilst most of the residents moved out of the estate other remained. 

But, the hazards identified in the most recent fire assessment coupled with another issue – the storage of lithium batteries needed for mobility scooters, which increases the risk of fire – means people cannot safely live in the blocks.

A council spokeswoman said the situation is being managed in the short-term by additional safety works, the waking watch remaining in place, and a zero tolerance approach to modes of transport that need lithium batteries, such as e-scooters and e-bikes.

Leader of the opposition, Cllr Victor Chamberlain said: “This latest episode raises serious questions about the council’s approach to fire safety and comes just weeks after the self-referral to the social housing watchdog. 

“Residents have been telling the council about these safety issues for years, and I understand lithium batteries have been banned in the towers for a long time, so this comes as no surprise but it’s not clear what’s suddenly changed.”

No definite timescale has been given for when residents must vacate the buildings.

The council said it will provide “alternative housing that meets the needs of each household”. 

But, Cllr Chamberlain said he was concerned for residents, questioning how the council would find suitable accommodation in such a short time.

Cllr King said: “All residents will be supported at every stage with help and information about where they will move to and how we can help them settle into their new homes. 

“Housing officers and fire safety experts will be based at the Ledbury Tenants and Residents Hall and our 24/7 waking watch will be remain on site to continue monitoring and mitigating risk. Under no circumstances should modes of transport needing a lithium battery enter any of the buildings.”

Residents can visit the Tenants and Residents Hall (the Ledbury office) between 8am to 8pm to talk to someone who can answer any questions they may have and explain how we can help you. They can also call 020 7732 2757 or 020 7732 2886 or email Ledburyhousingteam@southwark.gov.uk

Pictured top: Ledbury Estate in Peckham (Picture: Google Street View)