A fire safety investment worth a total of £9.6million has been unanimously approved by Ipswich borough councillors.

The investment will be used to ensure buildings owned by the borough council are fully compliant with the fire regulations brought on by the Conservative government in 2021 and 2022 as a result of the Grenfell Tower fire.

The works could include anything from new ventilation systems, fire alarms, or sprinklers for 19 sites across the town.

Councillor Alasdair Ross, who is the council’s lead for housing, said it was important for the council to get on with the work.

Councillor Alasdair RossCouncillor Alasdair Ross (Image: Newsquest)

He added: “This is just another step on this long road to ensure that our properties are safe and we meet all the current and future legislation on fire safety.”

The works will be conducted in two phases, with buildings at greater risk, such as Holywells Court and Walton House, taking precedence.

The money is already part of the council’s capital programme until 2027, meaning it will not create an extra pressure on the authority’s budget, with the bulk of the investment predicted to be spent next year.

Designs and specifications for the first set of buildings have already been completed, with tenders now invited from contractors - money will be awarded at a later date subject to approval from executive members.

As part of the works, more information on the timeline for works to Cumberland Towers will be made available by the time members discuss the money again, with the current report still not clear on which phase the works would take place. 

Councillors were also told measures would be put in place to address disruption to residents, including where tenants may need to move for the duration of the works.

The investment for the fire safety was approved unanimously by councillors.