Decision details

To consider the future of Marie Curie House

Cabinet heard representations from Mike Edge, chair of tenants and residents association and ward councillors Ian Wingfield, Ellie Cumbo and Jason Ochere.

RESOLVED:

1.  That the recommendations in the report to scrutiny committee on 14 October (Appendix 1 of the report) including the recommendation to demolish the residential block known as Marie Curie and the need to consider appropriate steps to address the findings of the recent Type 4 Fire Risk Assessment in 2025 (Appendix 2 of the report) be noted.

2.  That the departure from the original approved 2022 cabinet recommendation to undertake Phase 2 fire safety works and remediation be noted. The recommendation not to proceed with the original approval reflects the impact of updated fire safety regulations, the recommendations from the recent structural engineering report, the introduction of a new compliance sign-off process for high-rise buildings, ongoing market volatility, inflationary pressures, and sustained financial strain on the housing revenue account (HRA).

3.  That it be noted that Marie Curie and Lakanal House are sister blocks situated within the Sceaux Gardens Estate. They exhibit comparable architectural characteristics, notably their duplex 'scissors flat' configuration and concrete frame construction. Nevertheless, the context surrounding decision-making and the implementation of safety measures for each block varies considerably as set out in the report.

4.  That the progress with the resident engagement and rehousing of residents and buy backs of leaseholder properties has progressed and that all tenants have been offered the right to return be noted.

5.  That the outcome of the independent structural engineering report on the Marie Curie block that identifies emerging issues ranging from structural degradation due to humidity, insufficient reinforcement bar cover and the building nearing or exceeding its original design life, highlighting the need for decisive intervention be noted.

6.  That it be noted that if a decision to approve demolition is agreed by cabinet that the procurement of a demolition contractor for Marie Curie will be subject to a separate GW1 and GW2 process in line with the council’s gateway process.

7.  That to maintain continuity for residents, estate and key stakeholders, the proposal is to include the Marie Curie scheme together with the Florian and Racine sites on the Sceaux Gardens Estate in the pipeline sites as part of the Southwark Construction Development Agreement (DA) Future Programme for new homes, subject to separate approval from the cabinet member for new homes and sustainable development in consultation with strategic director of housing, strategic director of resources and director of planning and growth be noted.

8.  That it be noted that the demolition is subject to the council obtaining ballot exemption from the Greater London Authority (GLA) as set out in paragraphs 68 to 70 of the report.

9.  That the estimated cost for the demolition works as set out in paragraph 13 of the report be noted. This will be subject to additional approval to vary the housing investment programme.

10.  That subject to paragraphs 8 and 9 of the report, the demolition of the Marie Curie block, following its review by the housing scrutiny committee be approved, noting that all alternative options have been thoroughly assessed, with demolition identified as the most cost-effective and practicable solution as detailed in paragraphs 31 to 43 of the report.