Residents at a block of flats in Edinburgh have been advised to leave their homes after an investigation revealed the building posed a fire risk. The Bonnington Bond complex on Breadalbane Street has not been formally evacuated, but developer Persimmon Homes has strongly recommended that tenants relocate, offering immediate temporary accommodation to all affected.
Investigation findings and company response
Persimmon Homes, in conjunction with the Bond Building Owners Committee, stated that experts advised relocation as a precautionary measure following detailed investigations. A spokesperson said: “Following recent detailed investigations of the building, experts have advised that residents should relocate from their apartments as a precautionary measure. Persimmon Homes is offering immediate temporary accommodation to all affected residents. Persimmon Homes apologises for the obvious inconvenience and concern this will cause to all residents and will continue to provide ongoing support until the situation is resolved.”
Previous fire incident in 2024
The complex was the site of a significant fire in March 2024, which left two firefighters injured and rendered several flats uninhabitable. A subsequent report by Edinburgh City Council revealed that a 2022 survey had identified multiple issues, including combustible cladding and insulation, combustible decking, and internal fire-stopping problems. Additionally, seven internal lifts were found to be non-compliant with safety standards.
Political reaction
Sanne Dijkstra-Downie, MSP for Edinburgh Northern, expressed concern over the situation, noting that residents want assurance their homes are safe. She told the BBC: “I am very concerned by the situation at the Bonnington Bond flats, especially when this was the site of a terrible fire only two years ago. I will be working closely with Persimmon Homes and the council to understand plans for temporary accommodation and remediation work to address the fire risks.”
Ongoing support and next steps
Persimmon Homes has pledged to support residents until the matter is resolved, with temporary housing arranged for those who need it. The company has not specified a timeline for remediation work, but local authorities and the developer are expected to collaborate on addressing the identified fire safety deficiencies.
