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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Barton House in Bristol evacuated over 'structural fault'

Barton House, a tower block in Bristol, was evacuated after a survey revealed major structural faults, rendering it unsafe in case of a fire or explosion.

15 November 2023 · 07:25 UTC

Bristol City Council declared a major incident, affecting around 400 residents. The council, in assessing the building's long-term future, discovered the potential risks and promptly initiated the evacuation.

Residents, including families with children, were told to leave immediately, causing concern and confusion. Some, like Nuh Sharif and Yousif Ahmed, were distressed about finding immediate accommodation and the impact on their daily lives.

The council's decision, supported by Avon Fire and Rescue Service, was a precautionary measure for safety. The problem is not related to RAAC concrete, a common issue in older buildings. Emergency services are on standby, and local community services are offering support.

The evacuation has significantly affected the residents, with some, like Sheila Barrett, who lived there for 50 years, expressing shock and concern about the building's condition, including issues like damp and mold.