Ipswich Borough Council is considering replacing the lifts in Cumberland Towers on Norwich Road, Ipswich. The block is one of Ipswich Borough Council’s sheltered Housing Schemes and its lifts are estimated to be 55 years old. The lifts have been serviced and maintained regularly and are in working order but significant repairs would be needed if they are not replaced.
Cumberland Towers is twelve storeys high, contains 69 flats and is served by two lifts that stop at alternating floors. The new lifts would benefit the residents by the lift shaft being adapted so each lift stops at each floor. There would also be an independent stairlift providing access to the top floor (subject to the agreement of the Fire Officer).
The current lifts are not designed to be used for evacuation and as such they cannot be used in the event of a fire but with the new system a lift can be linked to the fire alarm system so that the Fire and Rescue Service could control the lift to use it for clear the block.
A consultation exercise will be undertaken with residents and local councillors about the proposed replacement. A detailed communication and site management plan will be developed to keep residents informed during the works. This will take account of the need to control noise and disruption.
Cllr Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Housing, says:
“Residents in Cumberland Towers will be pleased to hear that we are both going to replace the lift cars and also make adaptations so each lift stops at each floor as well as installing a stairlift to reach the top floor. We are committed to providing the best possible facilities for our residents.”
Photo: Cumberland Towers – credit: Ipswich Borough Council
