Lowestoft's only high rise block of flats may soon be demolished
The local authority is deciding whether it's worth making expensive repairs
Lowestoft's only high rise block of flats - St Peters Court - could be demolished, as the local council says it still needs substantial repair work.
The tower is already undergoing renovations but a report has now identified even more improvements - including repairing the roof and replacing the windows and lifts.
East Suffolk Council say they're now weighing up if its worth making the repairs - or if it would be cheaper to move the residents to new homes.
A report will be presented to the Council’s Cabinet in October, which will inform the authority's decision on whether to keep St Peters Court, and make the necessary investment in improvements, or to empty and demolish the building, before redeveloping the site.
Cllr David Beavan, East Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Housing said: "We strive to provide as much quality affordable housing as we can with the resources we have. The building is safe for its residents, but continued improvement and refurbishment work comes at a huge cost which may impact the long-term viability of the building.
“Ultimately, an ongoing and expensive programme of repair for an old building may not be the best approach for residents or the Council. The required work involves improvements to the communal areas, replacement windows, replacement lifts, new external wall insulation and improvements to the roof amongst many others.”
Cllr Beavan also stressed that residents are the council’s priority, and their views and concerns will be listened to.
He said: “Letters have already been sent to every household explaining the situation and we want their views before asking Councillors to make a decision. We understand that residents will have many questions, so we have arranged for three drop-in sessions, with Council officers later this week.
“These events will provide an opportunity for tenants to speak to officers on a one-to-one basis, offer their views and ask any questions they may have. No decision has been made, but all residents will be kept up to date including how they would be supported should a decision be taken to empty the building.
"Council officers will provide clear advice to residents, and I will also be attending the Friday event, should anyone want to speak to me in person.”
St Peters Court is unaffected by the issues relating to RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete).