York Way Meriden flats crisis: 'works to begin in August'

On February 9, Watford Community Housing told Cygnet House and Plover House residents that they had to move out within just over a week after a report revealed the problems with their 2021-built homes.

The provider has arranged for residents to move into alternative accommodation, or worked to support those who sorted somewhere themselves. 

The homes were built in 2021. (Image: Stephen Danzig)

Meanwhile, its contractor Mulalley investigated exactly what works would be needed “to improve the overall integrity and longevity of the building, and ensure it meets the appropriate standards in the long-term”.

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In an update this week, Watford Community Housing said: “The final designs for these works will be reviewed by an independent engineer on behalf of Watford Community Housing.

“We expect these works to get fully under way by August.

Cygnet and Plover House. (Image: Meriden Kitchen)

“Mulalley is committed to keeping disruption to a minimum, and has installed noise-monitoring equipment in the blocks to help measure the impact of the works.

“We are grateful to local residents for their patience and understanding while these works are ongoing.”

When the defects were first confirmed, it was expected that it could take 12 months until people could move back into their homes.