THE shock and horror of the Grenfell Tower disaster has prompted a call for disaster procedures in Redditch to be re-examined.
The move comes from Councillor Tom Baker-Price (Con, Headless Cross & Oakenshaw) who says he will be seeking assurances that the borough council is able to meet its legal duties and protect residents if a similar event ever occurs in Redditch.
Coun Baker-Price, chair of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee, is proposing a review into the relevance, effectiveness and credibility of the current emergency plans. This would be the first time the committee has set up a specific review into the council’s emergency plans.
The tragic Grenfell Tower fire has put local authorities in the spotlight on their planning and responce to public emergencies.
Kensington and Chelsea Council has seen protests with residents blaming the Conservative-controlled authority for failing to meet the needs of victims and their families.
“My thoughts are with all the victims of the Grenfell fire,” said Coun Baker-Price.
“The protection of the public is the first duty of government which must be underwritten by credible emergency plans.
“If the worst ever happens and a similar event occurs in Redditch the public must be assured of a fast and effective response that keeps residents safe.
“A review of Redditch’s emergency plans and if they have the capability to execute them will either provide this assurance or make recommendations to ensure Redditch is prepared.”
The proposal to launch a review will be debated at the July 4 meeting of the overview and scrutiny committee.
