Work is taking place on two Castle Vale tower blocks to further ensure the safety of residents and that the buildings are one-step-ahead of any future updates to statutory regulations.

In partnership with global quantity surveyor and construction consultancy RLB (Rider Levett Bucknall) Castle Value Community Housing (CVCH), a subsidiary brand of The Pioneer Group, is overseeing upgrades at Chivenor House and Topcliffe House – a combined occupancy of 80 flats.

The project is driven by new legislation established following the Grenfell disaster in 2017.

RLB Associate, James Gibson, (pictured) said: “The building Safety Act 2022 requires all buildings that are above 18 metres or seven stories with two more than two residential properties to register them in October of 2023 with the Building Safety Regulator.

“This will lead to a process of certification which associated timescales have yet to be defined via the required secondary legislation.

“Pioneer are working with us to proactively address, comply and exceed these expectations prior to them being mandated by statute.

“The legislation has been primarily driven by the Grenfell disaster and its intent is to ensure the safety of residents, that landlords comply with their existing statutory duties and seek to improve fire safety within existing tower blocks where they may fall short.

“Pioneer have taken the decision to extend this and to identify and implement improvements which will align with current best practice.

“Pioneer has strong relations with West Midlands Fire and Rescue services and are working closely with them as this project progresses. The aim of Pioneer under this programme is to safeguard the safety of the buildings’ residents and set themselves up for a future where they are ahead of upcoming statutory changes and can demonstrate that they are leaders within the residential industry.”

Meanwhile, Vikash Mistry, Resident Engagement Officer at CVCH said the safety of tenants is paramount.

“Meetings have taken place, and will continue to be held, with residents at Chivenor House to ensure that everyone living there is kept informed and up-to-date on the works being done,” he said.

“It is important they have a voice in shaping these upgrades as it is their home. Nothing is more important than the safety of our residents and we will continue to work with them and address any concerns that may have.”

The project at Chivenor House. is expected to take 18 months to complete. Work will then begin at Topcliffe.