The Welsh Government has announced that it will spend up to £3 million to replace cladding on three tower blocks in Newport
The funds will be given to social housing provider, Newport City Homes, to remove the existing Aluminium Composite Material (ACM), which currently wraps tower blocks throughout the country.
Rebecca Evans, the Welsh housing and regeneration minister has said that since the Grenfell tragedy, the Welsh government has worked closely with those affected to make sure that they are aware of updated safety guidance measures.
“Since the terrible events at Grenfell Tower last year, we have worked closely with local authorities, building owners, managers, both the private and third sectors and others to gather a full and accurate picture of high-rise residential buildings in Wales, and to ensure that owners and agents are aware of government safety guidance and taking necessary action, she said.
“Newport City Homes acted quickly to safeguard residents, putting in place a number of fire safety measures, including fitting sprinklers.
“Now it’s our turn to support them with this investment, which will enable Newport City Homes to continue their commitment to resident safety, without compromising their vital plans to build more social housing in the city.”
Subsequently, central government also announced last week that it will invest over £400 million to replace flammable materials used on social housing in the UK.
Although the recent Hackett review failed to recommend a ban on combustible cladding and insulation, the government will carry out a series of consultations throughout the next coming weeks to address the severity of the issue and solutions going forward.
