Evacuated Surrey Businesses Express Survival Concerns

Businesses displaced from a Surrey town centre high-rise almost a year ago due to safety issues are expressing concerns about their continued viability. A prohibition order concerning the state of Eastgate House in Woking was enacted in November 2023. Following a structural assessment of its concrete walls and ceilings, Woking Borough Council (WBC) directed all ground floor businesses and 100 tenants to vacate the premises. Southern Housing Group, the proprietor of the structure, stated that its structural engineers are “reviewing the results of ongoing tests at Eastgate to assess the building’s future”. Hassan Malik, proprietor of Pearl Dry Cleaners, conveyed to BBC Radio Surrey: “They gave us just an hour to grab what we could and we had to leave. “We had to lock up our business and walk away. Our business just died, it is in ruins.”It is heart-breaking.” Jinny Weller, who has operated Pin Up Curls hairdressers for 17 years, shared her experience. She stated: “I had a client at the door I had to turn away. It was very stressful. “We’re just hoping from one month to the next that we’re going to hear an update.”We are just left dangling. It has been an absolute nightmare.” Southern Housing Group commented: “Given the complexity of the situation, we’re prioritising thoroughness and safety.” Ann-Marie Barker, the leader of Woking Borough Council, remarked: “I am deeply concerned for those individuals and families displaced.” For further updates, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites and provides information on its approach to external linking.