‘Major’ incident as tower block urgently evacuated over serious ‘structural faults’ with locals told ‘stay with family’
People living nearby have been urged to stay away as hundreds have been told they're no allowed to return home
A MAJOR incident has been declared as a tower block was urgently evacuated over serious “structural faults” with locals told to “stay with family”.
Around 400 people, including an estimated 100 children, have been told to leave Barton House in Bristol immediately after the issue was discovered this afternoon.
It is understood the serious “structural faults” at the building, which contains 98 flats, was related to fire safety.
Those affected have reportedly been asked to now go to rest centres with a bag of clothes.
Local GP surgery Wellspring Settlement said it was being set up as an information point.
They said on social media: “We’re aware of the developing emergency at #BartonHouse – it looks like our Wellspring Site at Beam Street, BS5 9QY will be an information point for residents of the block.
“Please go there to speak to a BCC worker to find out where you should go.”
Co-leader of the Green Party and Bristol City Councillor Carla Denyer wrote on social media: “A high-rise block of Bristol City Council flats in Lawrence Hill has been found to have a major structural fault, all residents are being asked to evacuate.
“Please don’t visit, allow space for the professionals to do their jobs.”
She said support was currently being offered on site to those affected.
Bristol City Council confirmed in a briefing around 400 residents were affected and they would be knocking on each home this evening asking people to leave.
In a statement, Bristol City Council said: “A tower block in Bristol is being evacuated today (Tuesday 14 November) following a recent building survey.
“The block has recently been subject to a number of surveys to assess options for the future of the building due to its age and method of construction.
“The surveys undertaken to three flats out of the 98 in the block indicate that in the event of a fire, explosion or large impact, there is a risk to the structure of the block.
“As a precautionary measure and to allow for further, more in depth surveys, residents in the block are being asked to leave Barton House immediately.
“No evidence has been presented to suggest there is any immediate risk to health and life. The further planned survey is designed to provide all the information needed to fully assess the building structure.
“There is currently no evidence to suggest the issues identified within Barton House are present elsewhere, although the council is regularly surveying its estate as it works to meet all regulatory requirements.
“Officers have updated Avon Fire and Rescue with regards to the situation, who in turn have acknowledged the approach being taken is proportional.
“Further information will be made available on an ongoing basis. Residents are advised to follow Bristol City Council social media channels and keep mobile phones nearby to receive further updates from the housing team.”
