Residents told to 'stay put' as flats fire raged

A HOUSING group are continuing to support residents who were forced out of their Sherford homes after an arson attack.

- By CARL EVE

Damage caused by fire at the block of flats in Sherford

The fire, which broke out in a communal entrance area of the four-storey block in Aquila Drive shortly before 2.20pm on Friday, September 19, is believed to have been deliberately set, with an accelerant being used.

The fire quickly spread into the whole stairwell. It is understood that around 30 residents of the 12 flats remained in their properties as per 'stay put' guidance, which the National Fire Chiefs Council has previously given to other tenants of residential properties.

The fire service has stated that many people remained in their homes primarily because they were unable to exit due to the thick smoke which filled the communal area and stairwell.

The fire service has stated that around 20% of the building was damaged by fire with the remainder of the building suffering smoke damage.

The apartment block is owned and managed by Clarion Housing Association who describe themselves as the UK's largest housing association.

They have explained that in purpose-built blocks with the 'stay put' fire safety strategy, communal fire alarms are not required.