The problems at Merridale have been rumbling on since residents were evacuated way back in February this year.

Lewisham Homes, who manage the block on behalf of the Council, have now sent us an update:

There has been a slight delay from the original programme, caused principally by the time taken to determine the best way to deal with the boiler flues when the brickwork is replaced.  We have asked the designers to give particular attention to that issue as it is critical to maintaining heating and hot water for the residents during the course of the works.

 

The works have now been specified and the project is out to tender.  The tender return date is 10 October 08 and we hope to be able to appoint the successful contractor about 6 weeks later following completion of the leaseholder consultation process.

 

We will hold a public meeting shortly after that process has been completed, to introduce the residents to the contractor and to explain the processes and programme for carrying out the works.

 

It is anticipated the site set up will take place in December, and the works will commence in January.  The works are expected to take sixteen weeks to complete.

 

The scaffolding is now in the final stages of being adjusted, and the buttress scaffolding has been removed.  This will enable the road to be used once again.  Once we have received all of the necessary paperwork, we will be able to instruct the contractors to use the scaffolding to deal with the pigeon infestation.