These bungalows have been suffering from structural movement for many years.  It appears that parts of No. 71 have been underpinned in the past.  Raking shores were provided to the gable wall of No. 73 more than 15 years ago.

The cause of the damage is primarily due to leakage from the drainage system

Although there are trees nearby these predate the age of bungalows and are not considered to be implicated in the damage evident. 

Tree removal would likely cause further damage.  

The properties have cracked and tilted.  The gable wall of No. 73 was deemed to be structurally unstable, hence the provision of the raking shores 15+ years ago.

Both properties are currently occupied.

The works to No. 71 can be undertaken while the tenant remains in residence.  The work to No. 73 will require the tenant to be temporarily decanted.

Undertaking the repairs and structural restraint will improve living conditions for the tenants.  Removal of the raking shores will obviate the fear of structural failure.

Award of contract to Oxford Direct Services  to undertake work at 71 and 73 Leiden Road, Wood Farm.   The cost of the necessary works is estimated to be c.£12k for No. 71 and £63k for No. 73.a total of c.£75k (plus a contingency).

Property Services identified the requirement for these works following condition surveys which listed a number of properties (houses and flats) which were suffering structural damage.

The works will include:

·         Locally dismantling and reconstruction of brickwork as designed by the appointed structural engineer.

·         Provision of restraint straps as designed by the appointed structural engineer.

·         Crack repairs to internal walls and ceilings and external walling

·         Internal redecorations to all affected rooms

Following repairs and strengthening, the raking shores will be able to be removed. 

The structural movement needs to be arrested by undertaking the works designed by the appointed structural engineer.

All works are required for the prevention of further deterioration to the bungalows.

Consideration was given to demolition and reconstruction

 This was rejected due to financial viability.

Stephen Clarke, Head of Housing Services.