Anamore, a building remediation specialist firm based in Omagh, Northern Ireland, has expressed appreciation for the additional £1.2 million allocated to the Cladding Safety Fund in the region.
James McCallan, co-founder of Anamore, believes that this funding signifies a positive step forward in ensuring that Northern Ireland is adequately prepared to prevent high-rise fires similar to those witnessed in other countries.
Northern Ireland Industry (Credits: Inside Housing)
McCallan emphasized the importance of prioritizing fire compliance in construction, particularly in light of tragic events such as the fires in London, Milan, and Valencia. He highlighted the widespread use of unsafe and flammable cladding and insulation in construction, which has led to catastrophic consequences in various European countries.
With approximately 280 high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland classified as potentially at risk, the additional funding will enable more property owners to access financial support for rectifying non-compliant buildings.
The increased allocation of funds for the Cladding Safety Scheme in Northern Ireland for the 2023-24 financial year reflects the government’s commitment to addressing safety concerns in the construction sector.
Northern Ireland Industry Experts (Credits: Sky News)
McCallan emphasized that while there is still more work to be done to support the wider construction industry, the agreement among local politicians regarding the need for specific legislation reflecting the Building Safety Act is a positive development.
McCallan concluded by urging property owners and managers to take advantage of the available support and ensure the safety of residents in their buildings.
With the Executive’s support and funding opportunities in motion, it is essential for stakeholders to actively engage in remediation efforts to mitigate potential risks associated with non-compliant cladding and insulation.
