Meridian Point is a privately owned, seven-storey apartment block in the city centre and within the ring road.
As part of the nationwide inspection of buildings following the Grenfell fire tragedy, the building had been identified as having cladding and insulation that needed to be replaced. To ensure the level of safety was satisfactory prior to the remediation works to the cladding, the fire alarm system was upgraded and the evacuation strategy upgraded.
In a bid to secure grant funding from Homes England to help complete this work, a survey was carried out on the building that potentially identified much wider concerns with its construction.
The Freeholder has worked quickly to secure the safety of the occupants by offering alternative accommodation in the interim, while further works are done to understand the extent of the concerns.
Presented with these facts, Coventry City Council sought Court approval to issue a Section 77 Order to the owners.
This page is aimed at providing tenants with helpful advice on the situation. If you have any further questions, please email communications@coventry.gov.uk.
What is wrong with Meridian Point?
Building surveys carried out on behalf of the owner at 10 apartments in the block has shown that the higher floors on the seven-story complex were not constructed as designed. Surveyors have discovered there are some structural reinforcements missing within the building. The structural engineer has raised concerns that the building is not as safe as it should be if there was to be an accident such as a fire, gas explosion or accidental vehicle impact.
Why has the Council issued notice of a Section 77 order?
Following the decision made by the building owners to move residents out of the development, Coventry City Council issued a notice to aid the process to ensure the safety of all occupants.
Was the Court order granted?
Yes. Following the application to the Magistrates Court, the Court has ordered that the building cannot be used as a residential dwelling until the Court is satisfied that the necessary corrective work has been undertaken.
What is a Section 77 court order?
A court makes an order in line with a s.77 Building Act 1984 where danger arises from the condition of the building or structure, requiring the owner to carry out such work as may be necessary to obviate the danger, or if he so elects to demolish the building or structure, or any part of it, and remove any rubbish resulting from the demolition, or where danger arises from overloading of the building or structure, restricting its use until a magistrates’ court is satisfied that any necessary works have been carried out and withdraws or modifies the restriction.
If the building was not built to specification of the design plans, isn’t it the responsibility of the builders to rectify the problem?
Further investigations will take place in due course if required in respect of the construction and design of the building and any liability of individuals involved.
Could I be forced to find a new place to live?
At this stage, investigations are still underway on behalf of the building owners. However, as a result of the Court order, the building cannot be currently inhabited until it is considered safe to do so.
Can’t I choose to stay here even though I know the risks?
No. No one should live in a property where serious structural problems have been identified and this has been confirmed by the Court.
Who is responsible for finding me somewhere else to live?
Temporary accommodation has so far been offered to all residents by the owners of the building. Unless you met the Council homelessness criteria, it will be up to individuals involved to find alternative accommodation.
Why has it taken so long to find out there is a problem with the construction of the building?
There was no reason to believe the building had not been constructed in line with the approved design plans. The discovery was only made when a survey of the building was carried out looking at a separate matter.
Do I still need to pay rent, even if I’m no longer able to live there?
You will need to speak to your landlord to discuss the situation. You may also want to seek legal advice or help from an organisation such as Citizens Advice.
Do I still need to pay my mortgage, even if I’m no longer able to live there?
You should contact your mortgage provider and explain the situation and they will be able to outline their position. Again, you may also want to seek legal advice or help from an organisation such as Citizens Advice.
Are passers-by/surrounding buildings at risk?
The Meridian Point is not in danger of imminent collapse. The concerns raised are about the building’s resilience in the event of a major accident such as a severe fire or gas explosion.