Action taken over Bradford flats which 'posed real danger'

The social housing provider told the Telegraph & Argus there had been a “historic lack of investment” in the Thorpe Edge homes.

In March this year, Bradford East MP Imran Hussain visited the high-rise block of flats Waryn House after people living there spoke of their fears and serious concerns about a lack of proper maintenance.

Problems included faulty lifts, flats left without running warm water, broken railings, leaking roofs as well as widespread damp and black mould.

Imran Hussain MP with a resident of Waryn House

Mr Hussain called for a meeting with Rachael Dennis, Incommunities’ chief executive, and secured a commitment that will see an audit of all residential blocks on Thorpe Edge’s Fairhaven Green Estate.

This means necessary works should be identified and completed by the end of June.

Plans to replace the lift system in Waryn House will be brought forward, while a free telephone number for tenants to contact Incommunities will be introduced, Mr Hussain said.

A regular residents’ meeting with an Incommunities’ Housing Officer will also be put in place.

The MP said: “What I saw back in March at Waryn House in Thorpe Edge was quite simply nothing less than a complete ‘House of Horrors’ for residents, with some of the worst maintained social housing that I have ever seen posing a real danger to the people who have to live there, and it was shocking that Incommunities had neglected the property for so long, despite the complaints of tenants.”

Issues with safety railings

He said he would be keeping a “close watch” on Incommunities’ work at Waryn House and elsewhere.

Ms Dennis said: “I met with Imran Hussain MP on Friday and wholeheartedly agree that the issues he and customers have raised about Waryn House are concerning and action needs to be taken.

“I recognise there has been a historic lack of investment in these homes and we are currently auditing all four blocks, with a view to initiating an intensive repairs and investment programme in Thorpe Edge.”

She added: “We are planning a series of neighbourhood surgeries to address the issues raised by Fairhaven Green residents and will contact them shortly with details of dates and locations.”

“We know that meaningful investment and quality service delivery is key to creating homes and communities where people feel safe and proud to live.

“Our team is committed to working with partners and key stakeholders to make this happen.”