Local MP Maria Miller is calling for an independent report into the Oakridge fire be published in full and a formal meeting held with residents to go through the results.
Speaking after a further update from Hampshire and IOW Fire and Rescue Maria said, “ The severity of the Oakridge fire has caused huge concern amongst residents, particularly the way the fire, which has been judged by fire experts to be accidental, spread so rapidly from a 3rd floor balcony, into the roof area and balconies below. It’s important that there is complete transparency on the cause of the fire and on the part played by the building’s construction and I welcome Hampshire and IOW Fire and Rescue Service confirming that their counterpart in Kent is now carrying out an independent report into the Oakridge Fire which will include considering the construction of the building.
“This independent report is due to be completed in September and I have asked Hampshire Fire and Rescue to ensure this report is published in full and a meeting with residents held to explain the findings. It is also essential that families and all residents in flats of the same design know exactly how the fire started and more importantly why it spread so quickly, so that lessons can be learned and what necessary safety measures are to be implemented”.
"Vivid, the landlord at Oakridge, has told me they are keeping residents updated, but one of the learnings from Grenfell is the need to ensure residents voices are heard properly. That is why I am calling for a meeting between residents, the landlord Vivid, and the fire service to ensure there is clear and direct communication with the people whose homes are affected."
