TAUNTON Deane MP Rebecca Pow has met the Leader of Taunton Deane Borough Council (TDBC) to discuss fire safety in council houses across Taunton Deane following the tragic fire at the Grenfell Tower in London.

A spokesperson for TDBC said: “The council owns some 5,800 properties and as a responsible landlord puts the health and safety of its tenants as the highest priority. The council has a clear plan to make sure it complies with all the relevant legislation and requirements. The council also has a strong relationship with its tenants through the Tenants Services Management Board (TSMB) and the Tenants’ Forum. Senior officers have met members of the TSMB to update them and to assure them that tenants will be provided with detailed, updated information about fire safety shortly.”

Ms Pow said: “The safety of our council tenants across the constituency is paramount. Fortunately, there are no council properties above four storeys in Taunton Deane, however, I felt it important to receive assurances from the council that all steps are being taken to give due regard to the safety of those living in our local authority housing.”

Ms Pow confirmed she will also be contacting local housing associations to ask for similar reassurances.