Ten older tower blocks across the borough have been identified for major works, which will bring them closer in line with new fire regulations.
They include Elizabeth House, Mountbatten House, Victoria House, Edinburgh House, Uphavering House, Parkview House, Overstand House, Kipling Towers and Dryden Towers.
The council says it wants to ensure the “continued safety” of its homes and that they adhere to the Building Safety Act 2022, which was passed following the fatal Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.
The cabinet voted to begin the tendering process at a meeting on Wednesday (April 9), with a view to starting work this time next year.
May 2027 has been given as the target completion date, but the council says it is a “tight timeline” and relies on a number of factors running smoothly.
Workers will install sprinklers, new LD1 fire alarms, ventilation systems and firestopping measures throughout each tower.
The most expensive project will be restoring Highfield Tower, a 16-storey tall block home to 76 households, which has been priced at £7.5m.
Replacing the 30-year-old rainproof cladding will also improve the building’s insulation, which the council says could lead to lower energy bills.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Paul McGeary, the council’s cabinet member for housing and property, said: “The devastating events of 14 June, 2017, which claimed 72 lives, profoundly impacted communities across the UK and our thoughts remain with the victims, their families, and all those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire.
“Havering Council remains committed to preventing such a tragedy from occurring in our borough. We have taken significant steps to improve the safety and well-being of our tenants.
“We are committed to ensuring that all council-managed properties meet the required standards of fire safety.”
The lost Romford pub that is now a supermarket
The council says it is “essential” the works are completed, to both fulfill its duties as a responsible landlord but also avoid fines for non-compliance.
However, officers warned in a report published last week that the “complex” works may be “disruptive” for residents.
Labour group leader Keith Darvill urged the council to consult ward councillors during the process.
