Tower block at risk of collapse as residents told to evacuate immediately

Barton House in Bristol is being evacuated (Picture: Tom Wren/SWNS)

Hundreds of people have been told to evacuate their homes ‘immediately’ after a tower block was found to be at risk of collapse.

Surveys at three of the 98 flats in Barton House in Bristol found there is a ‘risk to the structure of the building’ in the event of a fire, explosion or large impact.

The city council is telling all tenants to leave immediately ‘as a precautionary measure’ while more in-depth inspections are carried out.

The council is asking as many people as possible to stay with friends or relatives, while the remainder will be housed at the Tawfiq Masjid & Centre mosque where beds, food and drink will be available.

A spokesman said: ‘The length of this temporary arrangement is dependent on a further survey of the building, which is being arranged to happen as soon as possible.

‘All tenants will be kept regularly informed of progress and any updates on support arrangements.

‘The cautious approach being taken to Barton House is to ensure that no unnecessary risk is taken with the wellbeing of those who live there.

Council officers are telling all residents to evacuate (Picture: Tom Wren/SWNS)

Residents have fled with their belongings in bin bags (Picture: Tom Wren/SWNS)

‘No evidence has been presented to suggest there is any immediate risk to health and life.’

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There are around 400 residents in the building, including around 100 children.

Local GP surgery Wellspring Settlement, said it was being set up as an information point.

They said on social media: ‘We’re aware of the developing emergency at Barton House – it looks like our Wellspring Site at Beam Street, BS5 9QY will be an information point for residents of the block.

‘Please go there to speak to a council worker to find out where you should go.’

The council said there is ‘no evidence’ issues at the block of flats, which was built in 1958, are present elsewhere on its estate.

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