Archway Heights residents face sixth year of scaffolding

Residents at Archway Heights have reported intruders accessing scaffolding around their homes for the past six years. The scaffolding was put in place in 2020 as a safety measure after a section of external cladding detached from the building. People for Places, the housing association, stated that it is awaiting approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to begin the necessary repairs.

The Building Safety Regulator confirmed that an application submitted in 2024 was invalidated, and further information is required to ensure compliance with building regulations. This delay has left residents feeling uncertain about the safety of their homes and the timeline for resolution.

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Concerns over safety and security

Natasha Dyett, who has lived in the nine-storey block for two years, described the situation as a "nightmare". She reported seeing individuals on the scaffolding outside her window during the summer, leading her to keep her home sealed. Dyett recounted an incident in July where she saw a person standing outside her window, prompting her to alert her landlord. She noted that CCTV footage was reportedly wiped before it could be reviewed. Residents frequently report people on the scaffolding, with concerns that they can access the roof. The scaffolding's presence has also led to increased energy costs for some residents who keep lights on during the day due to reduced natural light.

Ciara Squires, a 34-year-old nurse, also reported seeing individuals on the scaffolding and found returning home frightening due to loiterers. CCTV footage has previously captured incidents involving multiple individuals. Jameel Choudhury, who resides at Archway Heights with his family, highlighted that the scaffolding has attracted rough sleepers who have occupied the building's cycle and storage areas. He described seeing people accessing the scaffolding, breaking into the cycle store, and engaging in anti-social behaviour, including drug dealing. Choudhury noted that items like duvets, chairs, and a microwave were found in the storage area, where individuals were cooking and charging devices, with children in nearby bedrooms able to hear the activity.

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Residents have also expressed concerns about the cladding itself, questioning its safety and flammability. Choudhury stated that residents are seeking clear information about the situation and confirmation that the building is safe.

Delayed repairs and regulatory hurdles

A spokesperson for People for Places confirmed that additional security measures have been implemented at the block. Planning approval was obtained in 2023, and a contractor was appointed. However, changes introduced by the Building Safety Act for higher-risk buildings necessitated further approvals. Origin Housing, which merged with People for Places in April 2024, submitted an application in 2024 that required resubmission in January 2025. The full integration of the organisations was completed in April 2026.

People for Places stated that they are awaiting a decision from the BSR before the 12-month repair programme can commence. The spokesperson acknowledged the complexity and duration of the issues, expressing a desire to progress the works as swiftly as possible. The BSR, established to reform building safety laws, is working with the applicant on the proposed remediation works for the façade identified in 2020. The regulator noted that the case, initially submitted in April 2024, was invalidated, and the subsequent application in January 2025 has required multiple requests for further information.

Acorn Community Union is supporting residents who feel they have been left in limbo. Dan Newcombe, the union's media spokesperson, stated that residents have received shifting timelines for decisions over the past six years, with conflicting information from the housing association and the Building Safety Regulator leaving them without a clear end in sight. People for Places has indicated that a detailed work programme will be provided to residents once approval is granted.