Essential fire safety work is about to start on the Harold Wilson Court flats complex in Huddersfield town centre.

Contractor Wates Living Space has been hired by Kirklees Council to carry out the work, which will take up to two years to complete.

The works will include the installation of a sprinkler system, a range of improved fire safety measures throughout the block, including balconies and installing a new render system that meets the requirements of new fire regulations.

For the duration of the work, scaffolding will be put up around the building with a safety net for contractors to replace the render system. This will be taken down once these works are complete.

The proposal for the 11-storey building comes after a fire safety survey identified improvements were required.

Clr Masood Ahmed, Cabinet member for housing, said: “I am pleased we are moving forward and starting fire safety works at Harold Wilson Court.

“Reviewing the building safety has given us the opportunity to install the latest fire safety measures, that will ensure the safety of our tenants.

“We understand this may be an unsettling time for those living in the block, we will work with tenants and Wates to do all we can to keep any disruption to a minimum.”

As part of the project, some tenants will need to move out of their property temporarily to ensure their full safety whilst works are carried out. They will be expected to move out for three weeks and can return once work is completed.

To cause as little disruption as possible, temporary and respite accommodation will be set up at Harold Wilson Court for those affected. Housing management teams will give their full support to tenants during this time.

Tenants wanting more information on the fire safety improvements can email resident.firesafety@kirklees.gov.uk