RESIDENTS of a Tilbury tower block devastated by flooding in November have begun moving back into their homes, but repairs to the worst-affected flats could take weeks reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
Brisbane House, a 15-storey block, was evacuated on November 12 after a rooftop water tank pipe burst, sending water cascading through the building and leaving 64 homes uninhabitable. While some tenants returned just before Christmas, most remain in temporary accommodation.
Councillors on Thurrock’s Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee were told on Tuesday that repairs have been completed on 24 flats across the first six floors. Electricity and water have been restored throughout the building, and one lift is now operational.
Claire Demmel, Thurrock Council’s interim director of place, said: “Residents in these flats were given the option to return before Christmas. Nine households moved back in, while others chose to remain in temporary accommodation until the New Year. Support was provided, including heating engineers, caretakers to clear spoiled food, and portable heaters to warm homes quickly.”
However, the return process was briefly disrupted when a minor leak occurred after water was switched back on. A bath tap left open in an evacuated flat caused flooding in other homes and communal areas, though damage was minimal and repairs are underway.
Currently, nine households have returned, three remain in hotels, and 34 are in temporary accommodation. More residents from floors one to six are expected to move back this week, with floors seven to 12 scheduled for reoccupation from January 19, subject to electrical checks. The upper floors, which suffered the worst damage, will be assessed individually.
Ms Demmel praised housing staff for their efforts. She said: “They have worked over and above what would be expected to get everyone home as quickly as possible.”
Brisbane House residents were initially warned they might not return before Christmas due to extensive damage to electrics and lifts. The council continues to work with insurers and contractors to complete repairs and ensure homes meet safety standards.
At meeting in December, committee chairman Roy Jones described the situation as “horrendous,” adding: “It’s dreadful to think of what people went through that night, especially so close to Christmas.”
