Fire safety fears at arson hit flats

Fire safety fears at arson hit flats

10 September 2014

THE Housing Executive has been urged to improve safety at a block of flats in Downpatrick which has been repeatedly targeted by arsonists.

Downpatrick councillor Naomi Bailie said she was “appalled” to hear of the third incident in recent weeks at McLaughlin House and claims the Housing Executive has yet to install appropriate fire and safety equipment.

She also condemned those responsible for the attacks for putting people’s lives at risk.

Back in May a bin was set on fire on a communal stairway of the flats, leading to a man being carried out unconscious by fire fighters.

Substantial damage was caused and the Housing Executive had to spend around £15,000 on repairs to the block of six apartments.

A minor fire was later lit outside the flats at the end of June, using rubble from the repair works.

Two weeks ago a small fire was also started in the stairwell, which burnt itself out and damaged new flooring.

“The first incident was very traumatic for the residents and we were lucky to see no one killed,” said councillor Bailie. “That there have been another two subsequent attacks is a disgrace and I have called upon the Housing Executive to introduce measures that will deter these continuing attacks and ensure that those responsible are caught.

“I am appalled to learn that following the first fire incident some weeks ago the Housing Executive are yet to install appropriate fire and safety equipment.

“I visited the flats a number of days ago and they have no fire alarms, fire extinguishers or fire escape stairs for those living on the top level. “Despite being told by Housing Executive officials that they have no legal duty to provide such equipment they have agreed to carry out an urgent fire and safety risk assessment at the development at my request.

“It is not acceptable for Housing Executive to allow for residents’ lives to be put at risk and I will continue to press for suitable apparatus to be installed at the property as a matter of urgency.”

Councillor Bailie also appealed to anyone with information about the cause of any of the fire incidents to contact PSNI.”

A Housing Executive spokeswoman said: “The Housing Executive recently carried out a £15,000 refurbishment of McLaughlin House in Downpatrick following a fire at the end of May.

“McLaughlin House operates a door entry system. The security call panel provides controlled access to the six flats, ensuring that only tenants and those they grant access to can enter the communal areas.

“Additionally, only residents have keys for the back door of the building. Furthermore, each of the individual properties in McLaughlin House is fitted with a fire alarm.

“However, following two subsequent minor fires in the building, we decided to have an independent fire assessment risk carried out.

“We are currently in the process of appointing an independent fire risk assessor and expect the assessment to take place within the next seven days.

“We have already spoken to councillor Bailie and explained the current position. We will await the outcome of the assessment and in the meantime will continue to work closely with the PSNI and the Fire Service.”