Residents of a tower block in Bristol were forced to leave their homes on Tuesday after it was found to be at risk of collapse.
Surveys conducted at three of the 98 flats at Barton House in the Redfield area found there is a “risk to the structure of the block” in the event of a fire, explosion or large impact.
Bristol City Council is asking all tenants to leave immediately “as a precautionary measure” while more in-depth inspections are carried out.
The exact number of residents affected has not yet been confirmed, but is thought to be in the hundreds.
Anyone who can stay with relatives or friends is being urged to do so while the remainder will be housed in a temporary rest centre at the Tawfiq Masjid & Centre mosque where beds, food and drink will be available.
A tower block in Bristol is being evacuated today following a recent building survey. Residents of Barton House are being asked to leave immediately with support from council officers. Details on this ongoing action in Barton Hill are on our newsroom 👇 https://t.co/SI4EI4uDxG pic.twitter.com/VTO7us2fEM
— Bristol City Council (@BristolCouncil) November 14, 2023
A council statement said: “The length of this temporary arrangement is dependent on a further survey of the building, which is being arranged to happen as soon as possible.
“All tenants will be kept regularly informed of progress and any updates on support arrangements.”
