…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
Concerns over Fire Safety and Slow Rebuilding Process in Wennington Village
Residents in Wennington village, Havering, are expressing concerns about the risk of another fire and the slow progress in rebuilding properties, as the village marks one year since a devastating fire.
The fire, which occurred during a record-breaking heatwave last July, destroyed two rows of terraced houses, along with other homes, outbuildings, garages, stables, and cars.
Approximately 40 hectares of grassland were also affected.
Ongoing Fire Risks and Slow Rebuilding: Gary Smith, a resident and owner of a building company, points out that poorly kept fields make the village vulnerable to fires, especially during hot and dry conditions.
Despite the return of high temperatures, no action has been taken to address the potential fire hazards, with garages still filled with combustible materials.
Concerns are raised that another fire incident may be imminent if precautions are not taken.
Previous Narrow Escape and Fire Severity Index: Mr. Smith shares that he had concreted his private lane just two weeks before the fire broke out, which prevented the flames from reaching his house and nearby cottages.
Wennington, along with other areas along the Thames estuary, is classified at level four on the Met Office’s Fire Severity Index, indicating a high potential for fires to become extremely dangerous.
Slow Progress in Rebuilding: Although planning applications for the reconstruction of a section of houses were submitted in May and approved by Havering Council in July, no construction work has started yet.
One building is still awaiting demolition, and residents express frustration at the lack of progress, with only boarding being done for months.
Personal Experiences and Council Support: Residents share their personal experiences of losing their homes in the fire and the emotional toll it took on them.
One resident, who lost everything, including her house of 48 years, now resides in homeless housing with support from the council.
Havering Council leader, Councillor Ray Morgon, assures that the council has been working closely with affected residents, providing guidance on rebuilding, navigating regulations, and offering welfare support.
Efforts by London Fire Brigade (LFB): The LFB acknowledges engagement with local authorities and ongoing conversations with residents about specific measures that can be taken to address fire risks.
The brigade has also introduced new firefighting equipment and specialist personnel to combat the increasing risk of wildfires, including the deployment of ‘holey hose’ and additional wildfire officers and tactical advisers.
Conclusion: Residents in Wennington village remain concerned about fire safety and the slow progress in rebuilding after the devastating fire.
Urgent measures are needed to address fire risks and expedite the reconstruction process to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
The collaboration between residents, local authorities, and the LFB will be crucial in mitigating future fire hazards and supporting the affected residents in their recovery.
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