Breath of fresh air for tenants suffering foul smells
Tenants in Sandwell’s tower blocks who suffer foul smells and damp from leaking sewage are to get a breath of fresh air after councillors voted through a £3 million improvement plan.
Sandwell councillors have agreed to spend £750,000 a year upgrading waste systems – some of which have been decaying since the high rise homes were built in the 1950s.
The borough’s cabinet has awarded a contract to Vinci Construction to replace the systems in flats across the borough over the next four years.
Housing bosses say the move is needed as some pipes were nearly 70 years old.
In a report recommending their replacement, officers said: “Within the council’s housing stock primarily in its low, medium and high rise flatted accommodation the soil and vent pipes are those that were installed at the time the buildings were built, typically in the 1950s and 1960s.
“The existing pipework generally decays from the inside irrespective of the material used, typically either cast iron, galvanised steel or copper. Problems also occur as a consequence of the build-up of material reducing the bore of the pipe.
“These two issues lead to leaks on the system which cause damp and foul smells within flats affected.”
They add ten high rise blocks have been identified as suffering problems , including Harry Price House, Hackwood House, Wallace House and Alfred Gunn House in Oldbury.
In addition, Moorlands Court, St Giles Court along with Addenbrooke Court and Wesley Court in Rowley need upgrading.
While in West Bromwich, Holly Court, Oak Court and Meadow Avenue’s Willow House, Birch House and Aspen House will be improve.
Replacements will also be made in low and medium rise apartments and tenants and leaseholders will be consulted before works begin.
