TRESA submitted questions about the towerblock development at Totterdown Bridge to the Homes and Housing Delivery Committee of Bristol City Council, 18 July 2024, and received the following replies.
Background. The tower block development at Totterdown Bridge is currently unfinished, there is no sign of work progressing, and the 17-storey tower has only one escape route which does not comply with fire safety regulations for buildings over 18 metres. Residents of Totterdown regularly ask about progress.
Question 1. Please can you provide an update on what is happening to the towerblock development at Totterdown Bridge?
Officer response: Clarion, the Registered Provider and developer of the Totterdown Bridge development, wrote to councillors on 05/07 confirming that construction on the building is due to recommence this summer following the lengthy process of letting a recovery contract for the building. Clarion are now proposing to bring the development forward as social rent.
Question 2. Given the change in fire safety regulations as a result of the Grenfell disaster, will it be necessary to change the design of the tall tower at Totterdown Bridge in order for in to comply with current regulations?
Officer response (direct from Clarion): There are no plans to revise the fire safety measures in the new development but ensuring fire safety on all Clarion buildings is a priority for the RP [Registered Provider] and the team of consultants and experts including;
- Fire Consultants and Building Control are fully involved in the project ensuring compliance and safety.
- The consultant/expert team have reviewed and will ensure compliance with the relevant regulation including Building Safety Act 2022 (taking effect from 1/10/23).
- The buildings remain under the previous regulatory framework as the foundations were completed before April 6th 2024 as set out in the BSR [Building Safety Regulator] guidance.
- The fire strategy employed on this building includes a full water suppression system (sprinklers) in the building in all units and a protected staircase for escape.
- The fire strategy, as is normal process, includes consultation between the Fire consultants and Local Fire Brigade to ensure design and construction compliance.