South London tower block riddled with fire safety issues is earmarked for demolition

"A south London tower block riddled with multiple fire safety issues has been earmarked for demolition after a report concluded it would cost at least 23 million to retrofit and refurbish it. Last week, Southwark Council's Housing Scrutiny Commission discussed the future fate of Marie Curie House, a 1960s tower block on the Sceaux Gardens estate in Camberwell which now faces demolition due to the skyrocketing costs needed to make it safe."

"In May 2021, Marie Curie residents were told they would have to leave their homes while works took place to make the building safe after it was discovered the previous year that it had multiple fire safety failings. At the time, the council planned to refurbish the block. Of the 98 two-bed flats, there are currently only six households who reside at the building."

"A recent building survey found several critical concerns that pose serious risks to life safety and the long-term stability of the building, including explosion hazards and structural degradation due to humidity. During last week's meeting, Helen Dennis, cabinet member for new homes and sustainable development, said extra money would be needed on top of the reported 23 million because of needing to meet new fire safety standards. Cllr Dennis said: Even with that level of investment, the block would still carry a really significant risk with it and would need continual review and monitoring."

Marie Curie House is a 1960s tower block on the Sceaux Gardens estate in Camberwell now facing proposed demolition after a report estimated retrofit and refurbishment would cost at least 23 million. A building survey identified critical concerns, including explosion hazards and structural degradation from humidity, posing serious life-safety and long-term stability risks. Residents were told in May 2021 they would need to leave while works were planned; only six of 98 two-bed flats remain occupied. Southwark cabinet members will decide in December. The council says additional funds are required to meet new fire safety standards and is considering merging the site with neighbouring tower blocks.

Read at www.standard.co.uk