A total of £4.7 million funding has been secured to improve fire safety in high-rise blocks across Stoke-on-Trent.

Seven high-rise blocks in the city have been confirmed as eligible for extra funding as part of the Homes England Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS)

It comes after the government announced over £1 billion of new investment for people living in social housing - as well as privately-owned flats - last year. 

Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing, planning, improvement and governance at Stoke-on-Trent city council, said: "This investment will help drive forward the safety improvements we are carrying out in our high-rise blocks – providing real peace of mind for people.

"Residents will not pay for any of this work. No leaseholder will be charged, and no recovery costs will be added. And at every stage of this process we will keep residents informed, answer their questions and provide clear timelines."

Stoke-on-Trent City Council announced that it has secured £667,500 of "pre-tender support" for each building which will be used to evaluate two recommended options: either installing a full sprinkler system or removing polycarbonate stairwell coverings.

The council will then apply to government for the full cost of the work.

The seven buildings are Pedley Court in Blurton, Robinson Court in Blurton, Arthur Cotton Court in Burslem, Port Vale Court in Burslem, Brookfield Court in Hanley, Boundary Court in Hanley, and Forest Court in Hanley.  

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The new funding builds on the Council's ongoing programme to install sprinklers in apartments and communal areas in all 16 of its high‑rise blocks.  

The council explained that seven buildings have already had sprinklers fitted or are close to completion.  

Subject to cabinet approval, the council will now prepare a full funding application, including final designs, full cost breakdowns and engagement with residents, within five months. 

If the full applications are approved, the national Cladding Safety Scheme will pay for the entire cost of the remedial works allowing the council to invest money into other housing improvements across the city.