Birkenhead Estate: cladding work update
What we’re doing
The cladding on the Riverside, Riverfleet, Fleetfield and Fleetway blocks does not meet current fire safety standards. We’re replacing it with safer, non-combustible material.
The London Fire Brigade and our own fire safety team agree it’s safe to keep the current cladding in place until we replace it.
While we waited for funding, we put in extra safety measures, which included:
- installing extra fire alarms in homes
- upgrading communal lighting to emergency lighting
- installed door closers on front entrance doors
View the fire risk assessments.
Timeline for the work
Work is due to start from 22 September and take around 16 months to complete across all 4 blocks.
We expect each block to take about 30 weeks. This might change if we find extra work is needed.
The Contractors will write to all residents providing 2 weeks' notice, where possible, before the scaffold is erected for each block.
Cost of the work
The Cladding Safety Scheme is paying for the work, so leaseholders will not have to pay or contribute towards the cost of the work.
What you need to do
Tell your insurer
Tell your insurer about the cladding work. Let them know that scaffolding will be in place for about 30 weeks.
Arrange for a pre-condition survey
Our contractor, Pavehall, will write to introduce themselves. You must contact them to arrange a pre-condition survey of your flat. This is to establish the condition of your home before the work begins, in case any damage is caused by the cladding works.
Parking restrictions
To reduce fire risk during the works, we’ve stopped all parking on the estate, including on roads leading to the blocks.
Permit holders have been given alternative spaces nearby. We know this is inconvenient, but it's necessary for everyone’s safety.
Moving barriers or parking on the estate is dangerous. We’ll take enforcement action against anyone who puts others at risk.
If there’s a fire
If there’s a fire in another part of your block:
- stay in your home with the door closed
- wait for the fire brigade
This is still the safest option, even with the current cladding.
If there's a fire in your flat:
- leave the building by the nearest exit
- call 999
Get involved or ask questions
We held meetings on the 3 and 4 September to explain the work. If you still have questions, email suket.patel@camden.gov.uk.
GOV.UK has more information about the Cladding Safety Scheme. This includes:
- what to expect during the works
- real examples from other buildings
- a feedback form to share your views
Keeping you informed
We’ll keep you up to date:
- through letters delivered to your home
- monthly newsletters regarding the progress made
- on noticeboards in communal areas
- at monthly on-site drop-ins with Camden and Pavehall
You’ll be able to speak to someone in person about any issues or questions.