As the searches continue for people missing in the Grenfell Tower and the death toll raises to 79, concerns have been raised about high rise housing builds.

In response, Richmond Council’s senior officers and lead members met with the Richmond Housing Partnership, the largest social housing provider in the borough, to seek reassurance regarding fire precautions.

The council handed over management and ownership of all their social housing stock in July 2000 to RHP and no longer have any involvement.

Cllr David Marlow, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “We understand how concerned people in this borough will be about what has happened, particularly those who live in social housing.

“Richmond upon Thames does not have many high rise social housing blocks - only three.

RHP confirmed that they own and manage Slade House and Jamieson House, in Heathfield, which have recently been refurbished with rockwool cladding but their other building, Peldon Court, in Sheen Road, has not been over clad.

“The Chief Executive of RHP has been able to confirm to me that the material used is highly fire resistant,” added Cllr Marlow.

“I have met with senior colleagues from RHP to seek reassurances that their fire safety measures are robust and comprehensive to ensure the safety of residents.”

“Any tenants concerned should consult with the RHP website or contact their customer services.”

RHP has communicated a reminder of fire safety procedures, to their tenants and the council confirmed that emergency planning arrangements have also recently been reviewed.

Cllr Marlow said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with those who have lost family and friends in the Grenfell Tower fire and to those who have been made homeless by this tragedy.

For guidance on Fire Safety, go to: https://www.rhp.org.uk/rhpui/news/fire-safety-advice