More than 200 residents decanted from SNG block in Wembley due to fire safety risk 

Nicole Sharp, chief customer officer at SNG, said: “Grand Union Heights, a scheme of five high and medium-rise buildings in Wembley, is currently undergoing fire remediation works including the replacement of the external wall system and installation of a sprinkler system.

“Very recently, during the sprinkler installation and removal of external cladding, additional issues were identified which required further specialist investigation.

“Following advice received late on Wednesday 29 April from our independent fire safety specialists, it was confirmed that it is not currently safe for residents to remain in their homes because of concerns about how the buildings could perform in the event of a fire.

“On this basis, and to protect the safety of our residents, we took the decision to ask all households to temporarily move out of the buildings with immediate effect, while we carry our further investigations. Until this point, the safety measures in place had been agreed by fire engineers and the London Fire Brigade.

“We understand how distressing and disruptive this is for the people living at Grand Union Heights, and we are very sorry for the impact this situation is having on them and their families.

“Our teams have been on site from the outset to provide support. We’ve also held a meeting with residents to give them the opportunity to ask questions, and our teams will continue to be on site throughout this period.

“We are supporting all residents to move into temporary accommodation, and we are working closely with each household to ensure they receive the financial and practical assistance they need.

“Our approach has been supported by our primary fire authority and we remain in close contact with the London Fire Brigade and other key local stakeholders. Resident safety is our absolute priority, and we will update residents as soon as we know the outcome of our investigations.”