The survyors report has now come in. There are copies available for you to see, but we will put some quotes up on this blog asap.
A copy has been sent to Your Homes Newcastle.
Many issues were found in just the four flats surveyed and the surveyor believes that the design of the windows isn't suitable for a high rise block.
Contact Paul, Jean or Mick if you would like to see copies of the report or email threesistersnewcastle@hotmail.co.uk and request an electronic copy.
Tuesday 20 May 2008
Three Sisters evolves
Three Sisters Residents Association have joined the Newcastle Tenants Federation. For more information see www.newcastletenantsfed.org.uk
Monday 28 April 2008
Brenda emails YHN about not attending the meeting
once again it seems that you find us unimportant enough to even have the decency to attend a meeting and explain what is going on with the windows.once again threats about our web site.freedom of speech has always been one of our constitutional rights in this country and as long as they are not libelous then I believe they should be allowed to be given freely.i am only one of the concerned residents of the three sisters residents group but believe me when i say that we will fight for the right to have our say and we will always try to be civil in our meetings with you but please give us the satisfaction of meeting yourselves face to face and do not hide behind threats and notices of legal investigations as we are only normal people you are dealing with and not some terrorist organisation.
Tuesday 22 April 2008
Fire Service - Home Risk Assessment
If anyone is concerned about the safety of their flat, Jo has been on Fire Service website and they offer a service for a 'Home Risk Assessment' and you can fill in an internet form to request this.
This should enable you to speak to the Fire Service directly, even though they declined to attend the public meeting.
http://www.twfire.co.uk/firesafety/home/hra (for info)
http://www.twfire.co.uk/firesafety/home/hra/request (for the form)
Saturday 19 April 2008
Public Meeting
Many concerns were raised regarding safety issues which were unable to be answered due to the non-attendence of Your Homes Newcastle or the Fire Service.
Tenants from other estates came along to the meeting and gave us details of their experiences. The fire in the kitchen on Heaton Road and the damage caused to that flat by YHN contractors is incredible. We will ask that tenant to post a comment detailing the issues to date including lack of water, cooking facilities and time taken to resolve issues regarding the kitchen & bathroom upgrades. The many problems faced by Shieldfield estate where a revelation to most attendees. They had believed YHN when they stated at the previous public meeting that no issues had been raised on the other estates and all the tenants were happy with the upgrades.
The tenants felt strongly that further action needed to be taken as they felt their concerns about the installation and maintenance of the windows and fire safety were not being taken seriously. The 3 Sisters Committee have agreed to write to YHN, the Fire Service and others to detail all their concerns yet again and to discover who made the decision in relation to the windows in the stairwells and how they are qualified to make this decision. This is basic reassurance that the tenants feel they are entitled to following the breakdown in trust and apparent lack of integrity displayed by those undertaking work on their homes.
Tenants from other estates came along to the meeting and gave us details of their experiences. The fire in the kitchen on Heaton Road and the damage caused to that flat by YHN contractors is incredible. We will ask that tenant to post a comment detailing the issues to date including lack of water, cooking facilities and time taken to resolve issues regarding the kitchen & bathroom upgrades. The many problems faced by Shieldfield estate where a revelation to most attendees. They had believed YHN when they stated at the previous public meeting that no issues had been raised on the other estates and all the tenants were happy with the upgrades.
The tenants felt strongly that further action needed to be taken as they felt their concerns about the installation and maintenance of the windows and fire safety were not being taken seriously. The 3 Sisters Committee have agreed to write to YHN, the Fire Service and others to detail all their concerns yet again and to discover who made the decision in relation to the windows in the stairwells and how they are qualified to make this decision. This is basic reassurance that the tenants feel they are entitled to following the breakdown in trust and apparent lack of integrity displayed by those undertaking work on their homes.
Review of Jen Vinton's email (see below)
It was great to have our MPs and Councillors along to the meeting. It was a shame that Your Homes Newcastle, Building Control and the Fire Service decided not to attend. Please see the email below from YHN.
I have several issues with the email, including - why was Paul Baker offered an appointment with John Lee prior to the public meeting? Paul Baker does not represent us, the issue is far wider than 1 individual.
When Jen says "we have written to all tenants concerned and have not received one response to this letter." all the residents I spoke to were waiting for the meeting to air their concerns and be reassured - in an open, honest & constructive manner.
She states the Blog "clearly presents material in an unbalanced way". Well hello!!! It's our blog and our opinions. We have allowed anyone who wishes to add comments, which YHN have done and we are happy they have done so. We want to represent all the voices regarding the 3 Sisters, not just the disgruntled and appalled ones.
It says they are "currently carrying out an investigation into the Blog and will be taking legal advice on this". As far as I am aware we still have the right of free speech in the United Kingdom and if this is the way we wish to communicate with each other and air our opinions, rather than behind closed doors or writing to the papers, then this is how we will communicate.
I have several issues with the email, including - why was Paul Baker offered an appointment with John Lee prior to the public meeting? Paul Baker does not represent us, the issue is far wider than 1 individual.
When Jen says "we have written to all tenants concerned and have not received one response to this letter." all the residents I spoke to were waiting for the meeting to air their concerns and be reassured - in an open, honest & constructive manner.
She states the Blog "clearly presents material in an unbalanced way". Well hello!!! It's our blog and our opinions. We have allowed anyone who wishes to add comments, which YHN have done and we are happy they have done so. We want to represent all the voices regarding the 3 Sisters, not just the disgruntled and appalled ones.
It says they are "currently carrying out an investigation into the Blog and will be taking legal advice on this". As far as I am aware we still have the right of free speech in the United Kingdom and if this is the way we wish to communicate with each other and air our opinions, rather than behind closed doors or writing to the papers, then this is how we will communicate.
Email from Jen Vinton 18Apr08 (Day of Public Meeting)
Dear Three Sisters
I am responding to your invitation to John Lee to tonight’s Public Meeting. I have been made aware that Building Control and the Fire Service will not be attending. This is on the basis that they are happy with the response from YHN.
We are very disappointed that someone has chosen to leaflet other multi’s of the same construction type which could have caused unnecessary worry when there is no need to do so. For your information we have written to all tenants concerned and have not received one response to this letter. The necessary work to the windows will be carried out to your 3 blocks during the course of next week.
We have also just found a Blog which clearly presents material in an unbalanced way and does not make any reference to what we jointly agreed as actions from the last Public Meeting. You are aware we were in the process of setting up the follow up Public Meeting but at your request this has been postponed until your Inspector has completed surveys and prepared a report.
On this basis we cannot see what can be achieved by turning up tonight.
As you are aware we are happy to participate in effective communication and consultation however it would appear your organisation is not interested in this approach and are more interested in a confrontational approach. I understand Ann Todd Mills spoke to Paul Baker yesterday and offered an appointment with John Lee in advance of the Public Meeting but this has been declined.
I would be grateful if a member of the Group could contact me urgently to ensure we set an arrangement in place where we can work with your group constructively, honestly and openly.
I must also advise that we are currently carrying out an investigation into the Blog and will be taking legal advice on this.
I look forward to receiving your response either via e mail or I can be contacted on 0191 278 8789
Jen Vinton
Investment Delivery Manager
Property and Contract Services Website address www.yourhomesnewcastle.co.uk
Investment Delivery Tel Direct Line +44 (0)191 2788789
Your Homes Newcastle Switchboard +44 (0)191 2788600 ext. 28789
YHN House e_mail jen.vinton@yhn.org.uk
Benton Park Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE7 7LX
I am responding to your invitation to John Lee to tonight’s Public Meeting. I have been made aware that Building Control and the Fire Service will not be attending. This is on the basis that they are happy with the response from YHN.
We are very disappointed that someone has chosen to leaflet other multi’s of the same construction type which could have caused unnecessary worry when there is no need to do so. For your information we have written to all tenants concerned and have not received one response to this letter. The necessary work to the windows will be carried out to your 3 blocks during the course of next week.
We have also just found a Blog which clearly presents material in an unbalanced way and does not make any reference to what we jointly agreed as actions from the last Public Meeting. You are aware we were in the process of setting up the follow up Public Meeting but at your request this has been postponed until your Inspector has completed surveys and prepared a report.
On this basis we cannot see what can be achieved by turning up tonight.
As you are aware we are happy to participate in effective communication and consultation however it would appear your organisation is not interested in this approach and are more interested in a confrontational approach. I understand Ann Todd Mills spoke to Paul Baker yesterday and offered an appointment with John Lee in advance of the Public Meeting but this has been declined.
I would be grateful if a member of the Group could contact me urgently to ensure we set an arrangement in place where we can work with your group constructively, honestly and openly.
I must also advise that we are currently carrying out an investigation into the Blog and will be taking legal advice on this.
I look forward to receiving your response either via e mail or I can be contacted on 0191 278 8789
Jen Vinton
Investment Delivery Manager
Property and Contract Services Website address www.yourhomesnewcastle.co.uk
Investment Delivery Tel Direct Line +44 (0)191 2788789
Your Homes Newcastle Switchboard +44 (0)191 2788600 ext. 28789
YHN House e_mail jen.vinton@yhn.org.uk
Benton Park Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE7 7LX
Wednesday 9 April 2008
Two different blocks - same stories
I went to J's flat today, having visited B on Sunday. She could have been describing my flat or B's flat, with the problems she has had. Now my flat isn't exactly a palace, but it is home. But B & J live in immaculate homes that they have worked hard on, and so clean CSI would have a problem finding fingerprints. No home-owner would put up with the delays, excuses, problems and workmanship that we've experienced with our windows. Heaven help us when they start with phase 2 - the electrics & kitchen replacements.
Taped conversation
M. asked me to write up a conversation he taped between himself, Mansells & Bradburys when they came to inspect his mould and draught problems. Another resident P, was also present. I'll try and get it on-line tomorrow for everyone to see. Talk about condensation... more like condescension.
Draft Letter from Jo at Grafton House to YHN - for comment
Jo has asked me to post this draft letter on the blog for your comments.
Three Sisters Tenants Association
Heaton Park Court, Molineaux Court, Grafton House
06/04/08
Dear YHN,
Since you have begun the Decent Homes project at our homes to replace the windows in all three blocks of flats we as residents have experienced a variety of problems and are now rather concerned about the way this project is going.
We have yet to have all issues including; condensation, excess water, drafts, whistling noises, coldness, damp, mould, fungus, and others, with our new windows resolved. We have come together as residents to bring one voice to yourselves to investigate all our concerns and bring satisfaction to the safety issues concerning past, present and future work.
One of the residents at Grafton House had written to yourselves in regards to a fire safety issue a friend of his had noticed in regards to the new stairwell windows. He has received a response which now means our concerns have ramifications to the other blocks of flats throughout Newcastle Upon Tyne which have received new replacement windows.
We have confirmation from yourselves that we have been living in our blocks of flats with a confirmed Health & Safety Risk and as such are extremely concerned about other planned works to our homes. You have confirmed that the stairwell windows Do Not conform to Fire Safety/Building Regulations and must have work carried out upon them in order to correct this safety hazard. Currently the stairwell windows are all sealed when the old ones used to open and now these windows must be replaced with opening windows.
This Health & Safety risk has been present since installation of the windows (Heaton Park Court 18 months) and has only come to light due to our concerns and investigations into the other window problems. Had we as tenants not brought this to your attention we would have continued to live in a Fire Hazard situation and you as our Landlords are responsible for putting our lives at risk!
Since the installation of the new windows there have been a number of problems actually created by YHN Contractors Mansell. One of these being the emergency water outlets on the ground floor flats balcony (for water to escape the balcony in case the water drain gets blocked) being filled with silicon. This had left a potential unknown hazard at the property until the contractors blocked the water drain so causing a large build up of water which then flooded in to the flat through almost all the rooms ruining both carpets and irreplaceable belongings.
Until all of our concerns and problems and Fire Safety issues are resolved we will not allow any future planned works to go ahead due to our lack of confidence and consultation with yourselves. We are extremely concerned about the planned re-wiring, due to start at Heaton Park Court, and you will cease all planned work until we are living in safety and are satisfied.
Yours Sincerely
Three Sisters Tenants Association
Heaton Park Court
Molineaux CourtGrafton House - J.F.
Three Sisters Tenants Association
Heaton Park Court, Molineaux Court, Grafton House
06/04/08
Dear YHN,
Since you have begun the Decent Homes project at our homes to replace the windows in all three blocks of flats we as residents have experienced a variety of problems and are now rather concerned about the way this project is going.
We have yet to have all issues including; condensation, excess water, drafts, whistling noises, coldness, damp, mould, fungus, and others, with our new windows resolved. We have come together as residents to bring one voice to yourselves to investigate all our concerns and bring satisfaction to the safety issues concerning past, present and future work.
One of the residents at Grafton House had written to yourselves in regards to a fire safety issue a friend of his had noticed in regards to the new stairwell windows. He has received a response which now means our concerns have ramifications to the other blocks of flats throughout Newcastle Upon Tyne which have received new replacement windows.
We have confirmation from yourselves that we have been living in our blocks of flats with a confirmed Health & Safety Risk and as such are extremely concerned about other planned works to our homes. You have confirmed that the stairwell windows Do Not conform to Fire Safety/Building Regulations and must have work carried out upon them in order to correct this safety hazard. Currently the stairwell windows are all sealed when the old ones used to open and now these windows must be replaced with opening windows.
This Health & Safety risk has been present since installation of the windows (Heaton Park Court 18 months) and has only come to light due to our concerns and investigations into the other window problems. Had we as tenants not brought this to your attention we would have continued to live in a Fire Hazard situation and you as our Landlords are responsible for putting our lives at risk!
Since the installation of the new windows there have been a number of problems actually created by YHN Contractors Mansell. One of these being the emergency water outlets on the ground floor flats balcony (for water to escape the balcony in case the water drain gets blocked) being filled with silicon. This had left a potential unknown hazard at the property until the contractors blocked the water drain so causing a large build up of water which then flooded in to the flat through almost all the rooms ruining both carpets and irreplaceable belongings.
Until all of our concerns and problems and Fire Safety issues are resolved we will not allow any future planned works to go ahead due to our lack of confidence and consultation with yourselves. We are extremely concerned about the planned re-wiring, due to start at Heaton Park Court, and you will cease all planned work until we are living in safety and are satisfied.
Yours Sincerely
Three Sisters Tenants Association
Heaton Park Court
Molineaux CourtGrafton House - J.F.
Monday 7 April 2008
Quality of life
Nothing to do with the windows, but since I'm on a roll......
I've been into all 3 blocks now, and can't believe how dark, dingy and depressing the entrance lobby is in Grafton House compared to the other blocks. Basic interior design ideas would really help ie. light reflecting paint & decent lighting. Just walking in makes you inclined to commit hari-kiri. Luckily we're not samurai, Geordies (and adopted geordies) are used to putting up and shutting up.
My own bug bear is - who choses the colour schemes? Are they colour blind?
On my floor the walls are a particularly vile shade of vomit pink with the doors painted in burgundy red. Don't venture outside your front door if you are feeling queasy, or the neighbours will regret it.
I've been into all 3 blocks now, and can't believe how dark, dingy and depressing the entrance lobby is in Grafton House compared to the other blocks. Basic interior design ideas would really help ie. light reflecting paint & decent lighting. Just walking in makes you inclined to commit hari-kiri. Luckily we're not samurai, Geordies (and adopted geordies) are used to putting up and shutting up.
My own bug bear is - who choses the colour schemes? Are they colour blind?
On my floor the walls are a particularly vile shade of vomit pink with the doors painted in burgundy red. Don't venture outside your front door if you are feeling queasy, or the neighbours will regret it.
Not window related - but health & safety?
In Grafton House over 3 weeks ago, a large panel in the wall was removed on the ground floor. This has left wiring exposed and open to vandalism, risk of fire etc. Why hasn't the panel been replaced?
More window induced mould
This lady wipes down her sills every day and leaves her vents open as requested by Your Homes Newcstle. She also has whistling problems. As she can't read and write she believes the contractors have been treating her as if she is stupid. She also can't afford to keep her flat heated, so opening the vents leaves the flat extremely cold. She is another one who has had to start sleeping with 2 duvets.
All these problems have started since the new windows have been installed.
All these problems have started since the new windows have been installed.
Post flooding problems - is it sabotage?
When Mansell blocked up this outlet with silicon, the whole flat was flooded, with devastating results. We believe this is one of the residents who has been branded a saboteur by Bradbury. Two Mansell representatives said the silicon had been put there for insulation. This was a pristine flat, with lovely carpets and furniture..... I was shocked at the accusation that this was self-inflicted. What have these poor residents done to deserve this?
The outlet has since been unblocked - after the flat was flooded twice.
Is this normal?
5 of the 6 flats I went into yesterday had really bad 'condensation' problems. They have to wipe their window sills every morning (at least once a day), as there are large pools of water on the sills.
One girl said Mansell were extremely condescending and talked to her as if she were stupid.... now doesn't that sound familiar?
At least 2 of the flats have had really bad noise/whistling problems.
1 flat had been flooded when Mansells 'insulated' the outlet gulley for the rainwater overflow. (See photos above)
One girl said Mansell were extremely condescending and talked to her as if she were stupid.... now doesn't that sound familiar?
At least 2 of the flats have had really bad noise/whistling problems.
1 flat had been flooded when Mansells 'insulated' the outlet gulley for the rainwater overflow. (See photos above)
Sunday 6 April 2008
Follow-up of meeting re. Fire Escapes
The Residents Association decided to invite the Fire Brigade and Building Control along to a public meeting to allay their fears regarding the access/escape routes.
It was asked how known wheelchair users on the 11th and 5th floors would be evacuated, especially if the lifts were to be stopped in case of fire.
B. also mentioned that due to health issues, she would be unable to leave the building by the stairs.
It was asked how known wheelchair users on the 11th and 5th floors would be evacuated, especially if the lifts were to be stopped in case of fire.
B. also mentioned that due to health issues, she would be unable to leave the building by the stairs.
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Meeting today re. Tom Jarman's letter
We've got a residents meeting today about Tom Jarman's letter at 2:30pm at the Molineux Court community room.
Yesterday we leafleted everyone in Heaton Park Court for their positive, or otherwise, comments on the windows. So far we have had 1 positive response returned.
Yesterday we leafleted everyone in Heaton Park Court for their positive, or otherwise, comments on the windows. So far we have had 1 positive response returned.
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