The cladding system used at Marwood Towers high-rise block in Everton has passed the Government's fire safety test.

The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) confirmed that the full external wall façade system at Marwood Towers owned by Liverpool Mutual Homes (LMH) complies with its strict fire safety standard, known as BR135, when installed correctly.

The test involved building a nine metre high demonstration wall with non-combustible insulation, fire stops and the cladding material, and subjecting it to conditions that replicate a 'severe' fire (Test Reference BS8414-1).


The Government's statement said: "Expert Panel advise that the results show that this combination of materials can be compliant with current Building Regulations when installed and maintained properly."

LMH carried out an inspection of cladding at Marwood Towers on 23 June and commissioned independent fire safety experts Exova Warringtonfire to undertake a thorough review of the external wall façade system.

Exova Warringtonfire has now confirmed that the cladding system does meet the required building regulatory standard, subject to an additional safety enhancement to the fire stopping barriers at certain strategic points on the building exterior.

LMH had suspended removal of cladding at Marwood Towers on 12 July, pending the outcome of the Government’s full fire safety test. In consultation with tenants, Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, LMH will reinstate the cladding on the block, along with the recommended modification to the fire stopping barriers.

Works are expected to commence in approximately two weeks.

(CD)