A number of high-rise blocks in Clydebank are to have their window panels replaced due to safety concerns.

Following the Grenfell Tower fire in June this year, an external expert was commissioned by the council to carry out a fire-safety assessment of the 22 blocks in the town.

The review recommended that the panels below each window in 11 of the blocks should be replaced after checks raised questions over the composition of the material used within the panels.

Despite the panels meeting current building safety regulations, to take out any uncertainty the local authority is removing panels from five blocks in Dalmuir, five blocks in North Drumry and one block at Kilbowie. Work is underway to identify alternative panels and the removal and replacement programme will begin as soon as possible.


The independent assessor has stressed that the window panels "are not in any way similar to those installed in Grenfell" and has recommended the material is removed to ensure the buildings meet enhanced fire safety standards.

The reports' findings have also been shared with the Scottish Government and West Dunbartonshire Council is recommending that all Councils and Housing Associations with similar properties across Scotland consider independent assessment of the properties.

The council confirmed in June that none of the high-rise properties in West Dunbartonshire were clad with the external material used at Grenfell.

Peter Barry, West Dunbartonshire Council's Strategic Lead for Housing & Employability, said: "Our priority is the safety of our tenants and that is why we took the additional step of commissioning enhanced fire safety assessments. By carrying out these checks that are above and beyond what is expected, we have been able to identify an area for improvement in the form of the window panels.

"I want to be clear that the expert is explicit in saying these panels are not the same as the external wall coverings that were fitted at Grenfell. However, we will replace them as quickly as possible to fully reassure the people living in these homes."

(LM/MH)