Occupants Re-enter High-Rise After Structural Safety Confirmation

Following an assessment that determined the building to be “structurally sound”, individuals who had been evacuated from a high-rise tower block in north London due to the appearance of a crack have been permitted to re-enter their residences. Approximately 150 residents were evacuated from 70 flats within The Combe, located in Munster Square, Camden, on Thursday. This evacuation occurred after a resident reported hearing a loud noise originating from within the building. After conducting inspections, Camden Council announced that the block was considered “safe and the London Fire Brigade (LFB) agree with our assessment”, subsequently authorizing residents to return by Friday evening. The council indicated that all but three households were cleared to return, as specialist engineers determined that the crack on the ninth floor was situated on an internal, non-load bearing wall, thereby not compromising the building’s structural integrity. The residents who remain unable to return reside in the flat where the crack was discovered, along with the units directly above and below it. Further monitoring will be conducted throughout the forthcoming week to guarantee ongoing safety. Camden Council stated that accommodation and support services have been extended to these residents. A total of 50 residents spent Thursday night at a rest centre in Swiss Cottage, where they received assistance from the council and the British Red Cross. The building, which is owned by the council, houses a combination of tenants and leaseholders.