The Combe in Munster Square

MORE than 150 council tenants were moved out of their homes overnight over concerns about a “structural issue” in their tower block.

Firefighters were called after a resident heard a “loud noise” yesterday evening (Thursday) and found damage to The Combe in Munster Square on the Regent’s Park Estate.

It is understood a flat on the ninth floor of the 19-storey 1950s block was affected.

“A structural engineer was called to assess the damage before the decision to evacuate was made,” the council said in a statement. “All residents who do not have alternative accommodation options have been advised to move to a local rest centre. This issue affects 70 flats and approximately 150 people.”

The Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre was prepared as the rest centre – as it was during the 2017 Chalcots estate evacuation – although the majority of the residents privately found somewhere to stay. They have not been given a timetable as to when they might be able to return to their flats with council officers and emergency services still inspecting the building this morning (Friday).

Tenants said there had been fears of an explosion and that a crack had been found in the building and were told this might leave it vulnerable to collapse.

Were you affected? Call the CNJ on 0207 419 9000 or email editorial@camdennewjournal.co.uk