As reported by the Southern Daily Echo on 10 October 2022, residents initially moved into their new-built homes in April 2019. However, in late 2021, issues relating to fire safety were discovered, with residents being told that remedial works would be needed to meet the latest standards and regulations.
In October 2021, residents of the block were sent letters warning of issues with. In December of the same year, the fire policy was also changed to introduce a full evacuation in the event of a fire rather than residents staying in their homes. The building also established a waking watch, to offer a 24-hour security patrol.
new fire system
New fire system to help with the evacuation process was installed in February 2022
Following these growing concerns, a new fire system to help with the evacuation process was installed in February 2022, and it included wireless sounders in all flats. However, in September, a fault in one of the devices led to a full building evacuation. A spokesperson for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service later confirmed that "the alarm was caused by a system fault.”
However, some residents cited concerns that “individual alarms did not go off,” and they have since shared their fears and concerns over safety with the Echo, with one resident, Annemarie Cave, telling reporters: "My fire alarm doesn’t even work, so how am I supposed to evacuate when there’s a fire when it doesn’t even work? It’s a shambles, it’s horrible."
Southampton City Council
Southampton City Council has reiterated the safety of residents, insisting they are “not at risk.” Following a meeting with residents, Councilor Lisa Mitchell – the Cabinet Member for Housing – said in a statement:
“The safety of residents is our top priority, and we are working with our contractor to identify fire safety improvements to this building. These investigations are ongoing at this time, and we will be holding an additional meeting in November to report back to the residents. I will continue to meet with residents to reassure them that we have put measures in place to ensure their safety as we work to complete our investigations and any required repairs.”
Building contractor Drew Smith Group has said it is aware of the “concerns that residents have at Roundhill Close”. A spokesperson for the company added: “Safety is our number one priority, (and) we are working closely with Southampton City Council to investigate and complete any required works."
