Fire safety issues highlighted in Edgware redevelopment project by London Fire Brigade

Fire safety concerns in mixed-use Edgware redevelopment project

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has expressed multiple fire safety concerns regarding a proposed mixed-use redevelopment in Edgware.

The redevelopment involves residential, commercial, and public spaces, including a transport interchange and basement bus depot.

LFB reviewed fire strategy documents and identified gaps related to fire safety provisions for electric vehicle (EV) buses and structural integrity concerns for buildings located above the bus depot.

The plans propose up to 3,365 new homes and 463 student or co-living units, as well as new public access to Deans Brook Nature Reserve.

Electric vehicle risks and infrastructure inadequacies

LFB emphasised risks associated with EV buses, noting insufficient safety measures to address potential fire hazards and structural vulnerabilities.

The fire strategy lacks detailed planning for an EV bus fire, which could significantly impact the structural integrity of residential blocks above.

LFB recommended designing the scheme with EV-specific fire risks in mind or applying planning conditions to address these concerns before EV buses are introduced.

They further criticised the absence of plans for managing toxic runoff from EV fires.

Insufficient escape and fire detection measures

The redevelopment’s proposed evacuation and fire detection systems also came under scrutiny.

LFB noted that the plans for simultaneous evacuation of residential buildings during fire alarms deviate from current guidelines.

Concerns were also raised about inadequate numbers of firefighter and evacuation lifts, as well as unclear provision for disabled refuges in non-residential areas.

The plans also propose extended travel distances in the bus garage, which LFB argued could compromise safety.

Recommendations for fire strategy improvements

LFB urged the developer to adopt a site-wide fire strategy, addressing specific fire safety needs for individual blocks.

Key recommendations include: installing evacuation alert systems for buildings over 18m tall, providing adequate compartmentation to prevent fire spread, and ensuring intuitive access for firefighting operations.

LFB also stressed the importance of including automatic sprinkler systems in car parks with EV charging facilities.

Fire safety issues highlighted in Edgware redevelopment project by London Fire Brigade: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has raised significant concerns about the fire safety measures in a planned redevelopment in Edgware.

The project involves residential and commercial spaces, with plans for EV buses posing structural risks to buildings above the depot.

Concerns include insufficient planning for EV-specific fire risks, inadequate evacuation systems, and unclear fire detection measures.

LFB called for comprehensive revisions to ensure the redevelopment meets fire safety standards, including evacuation alert systems, enhanced compartmentation, and improved firefighting access.