A contractor has been appointed to reclad three of the city’s high rise blocks.
Following a procurement process, Cardiff Council has awarded the contract for the improvement works to the three tower blocks at Lydstep flats in Llandaff North to ISG.
Pre-construction work to deliver an enveloping solution to replace the cladding that was removed two years agoin the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, will begin shortly with the main work of recovering the blocks due to start in Spring 2021.
Cladding was removed from five of the Council’s six high-rise blocks after testing showed thatwhile none of the buildings contained ACM, the material that clad Grenfell,it did not meet current fire standards.
Following surveys and recommendations from consultants for the most appropriate solution, the three blocks will now be recovered with a ceramic brick-based cladding to improve the thermal efficiency of the buildings, while maintaining the highest fire safety standards.
Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Thorne, said: “The recladding of Lydstep flats is a very complicated scheme and appointing a contractor is another significant milestone for the Council and residents at Lydstep, who I know have been eagerly awaiting this news and are keen to see works progressing next year.
“We are pleased to be working with ISG at Lydstep.The brickwork solution that will be used to reclad the buildings is the safest option on the market, will significantly increase the blocks’ energy efficiency and will improve their appearance, helping to regenerate the local area.”
Richard Skone, regional director for ISG, commented: “The safety of residents has been the core consideration underpinning this project, after the Council took swift and decisive action to remove the existing cladding scheme. On completion, residents will significantly benefit from the improved thermal efficiency of the cladding system – with upgraded windows and balconies, which will also enhance the visual profile of the three blocks.”
The high-rise enveloping scheme will also include work to replace the windows and balconies at the three blocks.
Cardiff Council will be providing each household with a payment of £200 to help compensate for additional heating costs this winter.
Cllr Thorne added: “We know that some residents have been adversely affected by the removal of the cladding in 2018 and have experienced problems in their homes. We are extremely grateful for everyone’s patience while we have sought to ensure we reach the best way forward.”
Lydstep flats are the first to be reclad in a £17m phased programme to replace removed cladding. A similar approach that has been taken with Lydstep flats will also be taken for Nelson House and Loudoun House in Butetown. Residents will be kept fully informed of any developments.
