Council steps up action to ensure running water supplies for all residents at Peterborough flats after fire
Council chiefs have stepped up action to ensure running water is reconnected to all residents after a blaze cut off supplies to a block of flats.
The move comes after a blaze in a bin store at Varity House in Vicarage Farm Road, Fengate, caused a water tank to explode.
It left the 250 residents who live in the 112 flats without running water.
The blaze occurred during the morning of July 18.
While the fire was extinguished in about an hour, the running water supply had been cut and portable toilets and stocks of bottled water had to be brought in.
But Peterborough City Council officers say there are still problems getting full running water to the high levels of the four storey building and say enforcement measures are being used to ensure a proper running supply of water to all residents.
A council spokesperson said: “The council is working closely in an enforcement capacity to fully restore the water supply.
"The supply has been reinstated as a result, but there are still pressure issues on the higher floor levels.
The spokesperson said: “The management company has contractors on site today and is providing us with regular updates, as requested.
"Residents have direct contact with the team for support and assistance, and they are also keeping us informed of any ongoing issues and developments.
He added: “We are taking appropriate and proportionate enforcement action to conclude the matter, address any identified non-compliance, and reduce the risk of harm or further breaches.
“This involves the use of formal regulatory powers where necessary, monitoring compliance with any requirements imposed, and ensuring that appropriate outcomes are achieved within reasonable timescales."
The spokesperson said the approach was different from an advisory role as the focus is on enforcement activity and risk reduction rather than the provision of guidance or support alone.”
One of the first people to arrive at the scene of the fire was council leader Shabina Qayyum.
She said: “This is an awful situation and we are in touch with the residents constantly.”
The management company IPM has been contacted for a response.
A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire fire service said the cause of the fire was accidental.