Ashford Borough Council (ABC) officers remain on site alongside representatives from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following Monday’s incident. Yesterday the emergency services handed the site over to the HSE and they are continuing their investigation.
When this is complete they will then hand the site over to ABCl, which we hope will be by tomorrow morning. Due to the significant structural, fire and water damage the site remains a dangerous location and will continue to be cordoned off to the public.
ABC’s priorities will be to:
- ensure the safety of the site and the surrounding area
- ensure the welfare of affected residents and support their transition into more permanent accommodation
- recover any residents’ possessions in the least damaged properties if possible
Parts of the first floor have been damaged to such an extent that they are likely to have to be demolished, so nearby residents should be aware there may be some noise and disruption over the next few days.
Anyone who has been displaced from the eight affected council-owned properties as a result of the incident has been found temporary accommodation and we are in regular contact with these residents. Most are staying with friends but we are working on short and long-term housing options for them which are appropriate for their needs.
The emergency centre remains in place while the Council continues to co-ordinate our response.
Affected residents who require priority assistance should contact 01233 331111 and then select option 3 then option 2.
Ashford Borough Council update