Sprinkler systems for Manchester’s council-owned high rises

In response to the Grenfell Tower fire, Manchester City Council is set to approve the installation of sprinklers in the 36 council-owned high rise properties.

The move follows the completion of high level fire risk assessments (Type 4) that ensures compartmentation of flats, designed to contain fire within an individual dwelling and stop any spread.

Council representatives have also written to every owner or building manager of the 216 privately-owned high rises identified in the city to understand whether the cladding or other building materials used present pose any potential safety issues.

Bernard Priest, deputy leader of the council, said: “We need to get to a position where every person who lives in a high rise block feels safe in their homes, understands fire procedures for the building, and building owners know what their responsibilities are. We are still awaiting the outcome of the national inquiry following the Grenfell tragedy and we are ready to act quickly to any recommendations. However, we already know that a review into enforcement powers of councils and the fire service is vital to ensure the legislation is in place to fully protect residents.

“We believe that we should retrofit sprinkler systems in our high rise properties, but it is important that we do this in conversation with our residents – and funding the works will need to be in conversation with government for their support.”