Agenda item

The committee discussed the proposals for external wall insulation on the Kingswood estate, this item had been requested by ward councillors in view of residents’ concern about the cost and effectiveness of the proposed solution to problems with dampness throughout the estate.

The committee heard from Councillor Andy Simmons, ward member, and the senior housing officer leading the project. Some concerns about costs to leaseholders had been allayed following legal advice which clarified that the external wall insulation would not be chargeable to leaseholders. However there continued to be doubt among some residents that the proposed insulation is the correct solution.

The Kingswood Estate TRA:

·  raised issues with the  proposed external wall insulation (EWI) cladding work on their blocks

·  asked that cabinet examine the report submitted by the contractor in respect of what the deputation feel were exaggerated levels of damp

·  requested that a due diligence be carried out on the material of the EWI with specific concerns about the health implications of this material on all residents

·  requested for an estate wide open ballot concerning EWI cladding and for residents to be given some say in the matter

·  requested that an alternative solution to the claimed damp issues should be considered and that consultation is carried out with residents. 

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet be recommended to instruct officers to commission a detailed technical report into the impact that external wall insulation will have on issues of damp and heat loss in properties on the Kingswood Estate, to be carried out by an external, industry recognised expert.