Copper pipe theft causes gas leak at Anstey sheltered housing

Residents of a sheltered housing complex in Anstey have been left shaken after thieves stole copper piping and caused a gas leak. Charnwood Borough Council says it is now reviewing security at the site, according to Leicester Mercury.

Intruders got into Martin Court on Thursday 22 October. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended and confirmed that residents of a separate block on the site did not need to be evacuated. Cadent Gas also attended that evening and secured the site.

What the council says

A Charnwood Borough Council spokesperson said the intruders entered an unused part of the complex. The council’s Charnwood Lifeline service phoned each resident to check on their welfare. Council officers went to the site that evening to make sure it was secured once Cadent Gas had made the area safe.

The spokesperson described the incident as “distressing” for residents and said the council strongly condemns those responsible. They said the thieves had shown a complete disregard for the safety of others and could have put their own safety at risk. The site had been fully secured, they said, but the intruders forced their way in. It was secured again on the night of the incident.

Relatives raise concerns

The relative of one of the five people still living at Martin Court had questioned security at the site on Wednesday 21 October, the day before the theft. The relative, who wished to remain anonymous, said residents now feel unsafe and “high and dry”. They also said: “The people are vulnerable, they need rehoming and the council does everything once the horse has already bolted.”

Closure of the scheme

The council is closing Martin Court and is supporting the remaining residents to move to other accommodation. Residents include a 97-year-old woman. Martin Court is one of five properties the council is disposing of under its Sheltered Accommodation Scheme. In all, 45 residents will have to leave and make a new housing application.

Officers have previously said the properties do not meet modern standards. Many rooms are too small for a standard cooker, rely on shared bathrooms or have access problems. Meeting documents say there are more than 700 alternative beds of this type in the borough.

Relatives say residents need to be rehomed in the area. The relative of a Martin Court resident said: “He’s got to stay in Anstey, as they look out for him there.”

Source: Leicester Mercury