WORK to remove potentially dangerous cladding covering a high-rise building in Rooksdown has been given the go-ahead by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Pemberley Place, in Priestley Road, was found to contain combustible insulation after a storm exposed parts of the building's render leading to an investigation into the materials used to cover the apartment block.

A fire appraisal in January 2024 concluded that the cladding used to construct the eleven-storey building is combustible and presents a 'high level of risk' to residents.  

READ MORE: Crown Heights cladding work starts but residents may not see big changes immediately

It means the building is at risk of being engulfed if a fire broke out, similar to the tragedy that happened at Grenfell Tower in 2017.

Housing association Vivid has asked Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for permission to carry out remedial works to remove the cladding in an application submitted on August 20.

The proposals 'seek to remove and replace the existing combustible cladding system for a non-combustible alternative', the application states.

It added that the works will also include installing cavity fire barriers to the building's exterior. 

 The barriers work to prevent flames and smoke from spreading via walls by sealing off the gaps in a cavity during a fire.

Ward councillor, Simon Minas-Bound, expressed his 'strong support' for the planning application saying 'the safety and well-being of our residents must be our top priority'.

He added that whilst the project is a 'necessary intervention', the developers should ensure that work is 'carried out with minimal disruption to residents'.

SEE ALSO: Controversial 'tactical' shed plans given green light from council despite objections

He continued: "It is vital that we balance the urgency of these safety improvements with the need to maintain a reasonable quality of life for all those who live in the block.

"Therefore, I urge the project managers and all contractors involved to ensure that the work is executed as efficiently as possible."

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council approved the application in a decision notice on October 15.

In the planning officer's report, it is noted that 'it is not considered that the proposals would result in any adverse impacts on the amenities of residents'.