North East Housing Association Boosts Fire Safety Measures

Gentoo is investing over £32 million over four years in internal refurbishment works across its housing stock for 60,000 residents. In an early notification published on Contracts Finder last month, Gentoo set out details of its intentions.

The contract is divided into three lots with lot 3 focused on high-rise buildings and the installation of sprinkler systems and fire alarms. The value of lot 3 alone is £7 million and will be awarded on a framework basis for up to six providers.

Gentoo’s latest annual plan

Partnership with energy companies for the installation of a ground source heat pump to supply

The tender documents will be issued on 18 August for a minimum five-week tender period. The contracts are expected to be awarded prior to Christmas 2021.

This will help deliver the ambitions of Gentoo’s latest annual plan and its new eco scheme Core 364. This is a partnership with energy companies and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and involves the installation of a ground source heat pump to supply residents in seven of its tower blocks with energy.

EWS1 forms

As well as the replacement of old gas boilers, all properties within the scheme will be fitted with sprinkler systems to improve fire safety of the buildings. Separate contract documentation published this month reveals that Gentoo is also seeking to find a specialist consultancy to provide fire risk assessments for its 30 high and medium-rise blocks. The contractor is also expected to determine if EWS1 forms are required and to ensure their completion where appropriate.

Gentoo expects this work to cost £200-300,000 and take 12 months to complete but indicates they are open to alternate timescales.