• IT’S very hard to find the words to describe the horror of the Grenfell Tower fire.

We are sure every one of us reading this letter was shocked and moved by this most tragic of events and our thoughts are with all those affected.

It’s vital for all of London’s “high-rise” residents that we learn, from the official fire investigation, what caused and exacerbated the Grenfell Tower fire. But investigations take time.

So in the meantime we have introduced a range of measures to check and ensure that Camden’s blocks are as safe as they can be, over and above the ongoing programme of Fire Risk Assessments that all housing blocks on our estates receive as standard.

While the cladding design of Camden’s respective towers is not the same as that used on Grenfell Tower, as part of its inspections the council will still be assessing the fire resistance of the cladding, and has already taken samples for testing.

We, Camden Council and respective district management committees, are working together to make sure the fire safety measures and procedures within these buildings meet the appropriate advice and guidance.

If you are a resident in these blocks you will see council staff on site carrying out this work, making sure that corridors, hallways and fire exits are clear of obstructions and fire hazards, that alarms and extinguishers work, and also offering electrical testing of “white goods” items.

Fire prevention remains key and all residents can play a part in that.
The welfare of residents is of the utmost importance to all the authors of this letter and we will do everything we can to keep residents informed, provide reassurance and address any concerns.

CLLR GEORGIA GOULD
Leader of Camden Council
CLLR PAT CALLAGHAN
Cabinet Member for Housing
BOB O’TOOLE
Chair of Hampstead District Management Committee
TERRY WIGGETT
Chair of Gospel Oak District Management Committee
DEREK JARMAN
Chair of Kentish Town District Management Committee