Adams Court tenant says flats feel 'unsafe' after three fires

Firefighters have been called to at least three blazes in Adams Court in Cezanne Road, Garston, between July 8 and the beginning of August.

The fires are suspected to have been started deliberately, sparking a police investigation and even visits from Watford’s MP.

The latest fire was on a staircase at around 9.50pm on August 1.

One resident – who did not want to be named – said: “It was quite scary. A neighbour came and knocked on my door and we were evacuated and outside for two hours.

“There were lots of police and firefighters already there. The fire alarms did not go off because there are none in the stairwell and they haven’t gone off for the other fires either.”

Read more: Police probe 'arson' after fire at Adams Court

Adams Court in Cezanne Road

Previous fires – on July 8 and 14 – started under stairs in a bike parking area, as well as in a bin store.

No-one has been seriously injured, but some people were treated for smoke inhalation after the August 1 blaze.

Watford MP Dean Russell says he is 'annoyed' after another fire following the one at Abbey View tower (pictured) on the nearby Meriden estate in July which is being treated as arson. Police are not linking the Abbey View fire with Adams Court fires

Read more: Boys charged with arson after Meriden tower block fire

The resident continued: “It’s really scary that someone is setting fires and putting us at risk. One family had to be rescued from a balcony because the stairs were blocked by fire. I feel really unsafe and I fear someone is going to die. We have raised the issue about the fire alarm and the need for more security.”

Watford MP Dean Russell with Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue outside Adams Court. Credit: Dean Russell MP Twitter

Paradigm Housing Association says 24/7 security is being installed at Adams Court for at least the next two weeks but a spokesperson said the fire service has advised the building does not need more fire alarms.

A Paradigm spokesperson added: “We completely understand the concerns of customers living in Adams Court and are doing everything we can to support them.

“Adams Court is owned by Abacus Land and managed by a managing agent, Ian Gibbs, and they are responsible for fire safety and all works needed to the building.

“We will continue to listen to customers’ concerns and make sure they are kept updated about what’s happening to resolve the issues at Adams Court.”

Dean Russell speaking with officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary outside Adams Court. Credit: Dean Russell MP Twitter

Watford MP Dean Russell says he is "annoyed" to hear about another arson, following the blaze at Abbey View on the Meriden estate last month.

After visiting Adams Court twice last week, he said: "This totally ruthless behaviour could have led to a loss of life, and anyone found to be involved needs to be dealt with appropriately.

"I was grateful to the residents that spoke to me whilst visiting Adams Court, and I appreciate them raising their concerns with me regarding the recent fires.

"I have shared those concerns with the managing agent, Paradigm housing and the local authorities. I will be following up to ensure residents concerns are addressed."

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