Frustrated tenants in Warndon, Worcester, have expressed feeling abandoned by their social landlord over what they describe as 'hazardous' scaffolding safety fears. Platform Housing commenced work on communal stairwells at flats on Cranham Drive before Easter, but residents claim progress has been sluggish and glass panels remain unreplaced.
Safety Concerns Raised
One anonymous resident stated: 'As residents we take pride in our block. But there's no safety element to this – our kids can't go outside and play. We see builders and someone who I assume is the architect come, hang around for a bit and then go.' The scaffolding originally obstructed an entrance gate and, despite modifications, continues to block a keypad entry system, while the gate's lock has been damaged.
Residents' Efforts
Residents have attempted to clear broken glass and screws left behind by contractors. They remain concerned about sharp edges of the scaffolding, which lacks yellow padding visible on neighboring works.
Councillor's Remarks
Warndon councillor Jill Desayrah described the scaffolding as 'hazardous' and noted that the absence of security has compelled some grandparents to postpone visits from grandchildren, including crucial respite care arrangements. She added: 'Anti-social behaviour has further escalated, with barriers removed and damage caused to flowers, lights and play equipment. The shockingly poor communication and site management from Platform Housing needs to be improved immediately. Normal security facilities must be restored as a priority and residents want to know when the plan for completing the work will be shared with them.'
Landlord's Response
Doug Bacon, deputy chief property officer at Platform Housing Group, said: 'We understand residents' concerns regarding the ongoing works at Cranham Drive and recognise the disruption this has caused. A member of our team attended the site and met directly with the contractor, Snape, to review the issues raised. Temporary scaffolding and a temporary stairwell are currently in place to allow essential works to continue safely while maintaining access for residents. The temporary stairwell is safe for use and it is being monitored daily by the contractor. The main stairwell has been boarded off to allow works to progress safely. Concerns regarding some loose boarding have been identified and raised with the site team. These will be secured. Adjustments to the positioning of the scaffolding have already been made to improve access and we will continue working with the contractor to minimise disruption wherever possible. We complete independent scaffolding in sections in addition to our contractors. Safety remains our priority and appropriate signage and measures are in place while the works continue. We will continue to keep residents updated as the project progresses.'
