High-rise flats fail to meet fire safety standards

The Worcester flats were reassessed following concerns about a former contractor

Three high-rise buildings in Worcester have failed to meet fire safety standards after they were reassessed following concerns about a former contractor.

Henwick House, Cripplegate House and Severn House at St Clements Close were built in 1969 and are operated by housing association Platform Housing Group.

The not-for-profit organisation commissioned the checks, which identified issues with the external wall systems, as part of a UK sector-wide response to fire safety assessments issued by Tri Fire Ltd.

The BBC has contacted Tri Fire Ltd for comment.

According to Platform Housing Group, Tri Fire Ltd is no longer recognised by professional fire safety bodies.

It comes after the firm's director Adam Kiziak was placed under investigation for potential malpractice by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) - which suspended him in August 2024.

A spokesperson for Platform Housing Group said independent fire safety experts and Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority had confirmed the three buildings remained safe to live in, with the support of additional and temporary safety measures that are now in place.

The temporary safety measures that have been introduced, include:

• A 24/7 on-site fire safety support team, staffed by trained personnel to provide constant monitoring, reassurance and emergency readiness

• The temporary closure of the Sky Lounge at Cripplegate House, due to its top-floor location and usage by residents with limited mobility

• Daytime-only mobility scooter charging, introduced as a cautious step to further minimise fire risk during overnight hours

• A review and update of the emergency evacuation plan for all residents with known mobility issues and additional needs

Severn House, Henwick House and Cripplegate House have each failed fire safety standards

The Platform Housing Group spokesperson said: "All affected residents have been informed through direct communication, face-to-face support, and dedicated drop-in sessions on-site.

"Platform is also working closely with Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority, local authority partners, and elected representatives to keep all stakeholders informed."

'Our top priority'

Platform Housing Group's chief executive Elizabeth Froude said: "Safety is and always will be our top priority.

"That's why we've reassessed these buildings, and are now putting in place measures to keep our residents safe and supported.

"These buildings remain safe to live in, and we're working hand-in-hand with the Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority to ensure our residents have clear information, practical reassurance and a consistent presence on site."

Group Commander Deb Davies, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We're continuing to work closely with Platform Housing Group as they respond proactively to recent fire safety findings.

"The additional temporary measures being introduced are precautionary steps that support customer safety."