Council claims on insurance over empty flats

The building houses 35 flats on the site of a former pub

A council is making an insurance claim over a block of newbuild flats that has remained empty for more than two years.

Shortly after buying Birch Court, Dunstable, in October 2022, Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) carried out surveys that highlighted "defects in the building, necessitating substantial remedial works".

Dunstable Independents said the Independent-led authority would oversee improvement works, but that Birch Court could not be occupied until an insurance claim had concluded.

In a statement, the council said: "We understand residents of Dunstable want to see the building brought to life and in use, and while we share this goal, the timeline is out of our hands."

The flats were purchased by the council in October 2022

The site, made up of 35 flats across three four-storey buildings, was found to have roof leaks and, structural issues - and did not meet fire safety requirements.

It was built on the site of the former First & Last pub on the junction of Station Road and Church Street.

The company that built Birch Court has since been dissolved.

The council spokesperson added: "Last year, we carried out our own inspections of the building, which found a number of issues.

"Since then, insurance experts have carried out their own inspections and submitted a report to the developer's insurance company.

"We are now awaiting the insurance company's assessment of the reports."

Councillors have said the flats cannot be occupied until an insurance claim has been completed

Deficiencies in the building also include the windows and doors, which failed to meet safety and operational standards.

Dunstable Independents said: "It is anticipated that regardless of potential recoverability of costs, CBC shall directly manage and oversee the remediation works.

"It is not possible to provide a date of when the insurance company will settle, or when the works will be completed or when occupation can happen."