Archway Heights residents face ongoing scaffolding issues

Residents at Archway Heights in north London have reported ongoing issues with intruders accessing scaffolding that has enclosed their homes since 2020. The scaffolding was put in place after a section of external cladding detached from the building. This has led to residents experiencing antisocial behaviour, including drug dealing and rough sleeping, associated with the structure.

Delays in Repair Approval

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The housing association, People for Places, stated that it is awaiting approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to commence necessary repairs. An application submitted in 2024 was invalidated, with the BSR requiring additional information to confirm compliance with building regulations. A subsequent application made in January 2025 has also necessitated further requests for information and ongoing engagement with the applicant.

Natasha Dyett, who moved into the nine-storey block two years ago, described living with the scaffolding as a "nightmare". She reported instances of people breaching the scaffolding, with one individual seen outside her window in July. Dyett stated that such breaches occur weekly, with individuals reportedly able to access the roof. The scaffolding has also led to residents keeping lights on during the day to compensate for reduced natural light.

Ciara Squires, a 34-year-old nurse, also expressed fear upon returning home due to people loitering around the scaffolding. She reported CCTV footage showing an incident involving five young men. Jameel Choudhury, a resident with his wife and three children, noted that the scaffolding had attracted rough sleepers who occupied the building's cycle and storage areas. He reported drug dealing and theft from the storage area, where items like duvets and a microwave were found.

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Residents have raised concerns about the safety of the cladding, fearing it could be flammable or become loose again. Choudhury stated that residents seek clear information regarding the cladding's safety and the overall situation.

Housing Association Response and Next Steps

A spokesperson for People for Places confirmed that additional security measures have been implemented. They explained that while planning approval was secured in 2023 and a contractor appointed, changes under the Building Safety Act required further approvals for higher-risk buildings. Origin Housing, which merged with People for Places in April 2024, submitted the initial application. The housing association acknowledged the extended duration of the scaffolding and expressed a desire to progress the works swiftly.

The BSR, established to reform building safety laws, is working with the applicant to secure approval for the remediation works on the wall façade, initially identified in 2020. The regulator confirmed that the case is complex and has required significant engagement to demonstrate compliance.

Acorn Community Union has been supporting residents, with spokesperson Dan Newcombe describing them as being "left in limbo". He noted that promised decision dates have repeatedly changed, with conflicting information from the housing association and the BSR leaving residents uncertain about an end date.

People for Places stated that residents will receive a detailed programme of work once approval is granted. The repairs are anticipated to take 12 months to complete.