Forum House built 2009
Residents of two of the earliest buildings constructed as part of the multi-million Wembley Park regeneration received a warning letter today from the latest of their managing agents MLM Property. LRM and First Port having been removed.
MLM asked for immediate access today to the Quadrant Court Winter Garden balconies to carry out inspections.
They said:
We have recently become aware that some of the winter Gardens balconies glass fixings have deteriorated over time and the railings securing the glass have, in a limited number of balconies become unstable. This is clearly a serious issue, and is a priority to have resolved as soon as possible.
We have recently completed inspections of all 60 Winter Garden balconies in Form House (on elevations to Empire Way and corner of Lakeside Way) with 2 requiring requiring immediate intervention (with the glass already being removed as a safety measure), with a further 17 requiring temporary supports whilst a permanent solution is devised.
The seriousness of the situation for the public as well as residents is clear from the warni:
In the meantime, the instruction not to use these balconies remains in places and the cordon of the footpath below will remain in place for the time being as an additional measure for everyone's continued safety.
Both buildings, post-Grenfell, were found to have cladding problems and other fire safety issues, fire patrols necessary and residents faced significant increases in service charges.
MLM note a further worrying issue:
Additionally, you may be aware that a glass balustrade recently shattered during the very hot spell of weather. At this time, we believe this incident is not connected to the issues identified in the Winter Garden balconies. We are arranging additional inspections of these balconies and whist priority is being given to the Winter Garden types, we expect to complete these inspections within the next month if possible.
Anticipating the first question that residents are likely to ask on reading the letter MLM say:
Whilst investigations are ongoing it would be inappropriate to speculate on what is causing these failures, however, we wish to assure you that these inspections are thorough and are being professionally documented so that we can advise you further on causes and remedial actions needed.
Forum House and Quadrant Court were designed and built by Sisk for £43m and £45m respectively.
It seems that South Kilburn is not the only Brent regeneration area facing problems.
