A MIDDLEWICH First councillor has welcomed the news that Cheshire East Council has sought fire safety reassurances.

Following the tragic fire in Grenfell Tower, concerns have been raised across the borough over the fire safety of high-rise blocks.

The authority has reviewed its own buildings stock and has contacted housing provided to ensure than any high rise properties meet strict fire regulations.

Cllr Bernice Walmsley, CEC ward member, said: “It’s reassuring to hear that Cheshire East Council has taken necessary steps to ensure the safety of our residents.

“They are also looking to the future in ensuring that housing providers in the borough have all the appropriate risk assessments and safety procedures in places.”

CEC has reviewed its own buildings stock and has found that no properties have been identified as having the type of cladding that has been implicated in the Grenfell Tower blaze on June 14.

Council officers are also working alongside fire brigade officers during visits to high-rise properties in the borough. No sites of concern have yet been identified.

Cllr Rachel Bailey, CEC leader, said: “This council was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic events at Grenfell Tower in west London, and joins the nation in grieving for those who lost their lives.

“The council has acted swiftly to review its own properties, in order to reassure our local residents about the safety measure in place for similar buildings in east Cheshire.”

Cheshire Fire and Rescue confirmed that every high-rise building in Cheshire is regularly inspected for fire safety by the service’s prevention and protection teams.

Cllr Bailey added: “This council supports the calls for a public enquiry into the tragedy at Grenfell Tower and the events that led to that horrific blaze.

“We would welcome any changes to fire safety codes, law, guidance, advice or practice that would result in improvements in fire safety in such buildings.”

If you have any concerns about the fire safety arrangements in your building, you should initially contact your housing provider.

For further information on fire safety, visit cheshirefire.gov.uk.