BREAKING: A 1,000-home estate of mostly student housing in west London is to be evacuated immediately due to a "multitude" of fire safety issues which mean resident safety can no longer be guaranteed https://www.insidehousing.co.uk/news/housing-association-to-evacuate-1000-home-modular-development-due-to-multitude-of-fire-safety-issues-68238

Paragon Estate (six towers, largest 17 storeys) have had known fire safety issues since December 2017 relating to cladding and fire breaks. But new intrusive inspections have now resulted in advice from consultants that they are not safe to occupy

These towers were built by Berkeley Group in 2006 using offsite (modular) construction and the largest tower was feted as the tallest modular building in the country on construction. They are currently owned and managed by Notting Hill Genesis.

There are currently 688 students in residence, mainly from Imperial and University of West London. Also 170 leaseholders and tenants. Students will be offered alternative student accommodation, others will go to hotels awaiting longer term housing. NHG will cover all costs.

Evacuation is intended to be 'covid secure', with households not having to mix. Block likely contains at least some people who are self-isolating/infected.

Once evacuated, there will be further intrusive investigations including ripping out walls. NHG has not ruled out demolition long term.

Given issues have been known since 2017, raises question of what new finding has triggered this move. No definitive answer given yet.

Have to stress this is a BIG story. First large scale evacuation due to fire safety since the Chalcots Estate immediately after Grenfell. A huge, expensive, disruptive logistical challenge. They would not do this unless VERY worried about safety.