Over the last week, several fires have taken place at Hollytree Avenue and Sycamore Drive, Swanley.
On Monday 29 June, there was another fire in an electrical cupboard at Sycamore Drive. These fires are being taken very seriously and are being investigated as suspected arson attacks by Kent Police.
Cathy McCarthy, Housing Director at West Kent said:
“Our priority is the safety of our residents. We know many of our residents are understandably worried about the fires and we are doing all we can to make them feel safe. We have written to all our residents in Hollytree Avenue and Sycamore Drive to offer reassurance and explain the actions we are taking by working with Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Kent Police and our contractors to reduce any further risks.”
These are:
- Looking at whether we can install more CCTV cameras to deter any future fires
Providing metal rubbish bins for the bin stores, to prevent any future fires from spreading and destroying the bin store area - Arranging for daily rubbish collections to prevent rubbish accumulating until the new bins are in place
- Routinely checking areas where rubbish regularly builds up, to make sure nothing is left that could be used to start a fire
- Installing smoke alarms to some electrical cupboards and checking the locks are secure to stop anyone getting in that shouldn’t
- Arranging for Kent Fire and Rescue Service to visit residents who are concerned to offer advice and reassurance.
The police are urging anyone with any information to contact them by calling the appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/109765/20.
You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org