Burnley Council's executive member for Housing and Planning, Coin Howard Baker, said residents' safety must come first as the local authority works with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service to address serious fire safety concerns at Chaddesley House, a 32-apartment block in Burnley town centre.

Serious fire safety issues have been identified at a prominent building in Burnley town centre.

A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said they were working closely with the owners of Chaddesley House in Manchester Road after the issues came to light.

A former Lancashire County Council owned building, that served as social services and general council premises, the property was later sold to private owners after laying vacant since 2020 due to the pandemic. It has recently been converted into a 32 apartment block.

The spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said: “We are continuing to work with the owners to ensure the necessary improvements are made and that the safety of residents remains the priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and, if further action is necessary, we will take appropriate steps.

“We are also working closely with Burnley Council to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place should further action be required.

“We understand that residents may have concerns and want to reassure them that we are actively addressing the issues with the owners and our partners."

Coun. Howard Baker, who is Burnley Council’s executive member for Housing and Planning ,, said the local authority understood how ‘worrying and upsetting’ the situation was for residents at Chaddesley House ,particularly with the possibility of having to leave their homes at short notice.

Coun. Baker said: “Residents' safety must come first. We are working closely with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service following the identification of serious fire safety concerns at the building.

“Our housing team has been contacting residents to understand their individual circumstances and identify what support they may need. If the building has to close, we will arrange temporary emergency accommodation for those who are unable to make their own arrangements.

“We want to reassure residents that support is available. Anyone living at Chaddesley House who has questions or whose circumstances change should contact our Housing Needs team on 01282 425011.”