A tower block in Bristol is being evacuated of its nearly 400 residents due to ‘structural concerns’.
Barton House, in the Barton Hill area of the city, is the oldest tower block in Bristol City Council’s housing estate, constructed in 1958.
Due to its age and method of construction, Barton House was recently subject to several building surveys.
Results for three of the 98 flats showed “in the event of a fire, explosion or large impact” there is a ‘structural risk’ to Barton House.
“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,” a council notice reads.
However, no evidence has been found to suggest any immediate risk to health and life, the council said.
A temporary shelter, offering beds, food and drink, has been made available to residents who cannot stay with relatives, at the Tawfiq Masjid & Centre in the city.
The duration of their stay is dependent on the further survey of the building, which is currently being arranged.
“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,” a council notice reads.
A free hotline for residents is open until 10pm today: 0800 694 0184. Outside of these hours residents can also call 0117 922 2050.
Or they can visit the Citizen Service Point at 100 Temple Street.
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