Correspondence

Keeping you updated about the Grenfell Tower wrapping

Updated 19 February 2024

Applies to England

The Grenfell Tower site is managed by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. It’s the department’s job to keep the tower secure and stable until a decision is made about its future.

One of the things the department does is to keep the tower enclosed in two layers of protective wrapping. The outer layer of the wrapping needs to be replaced once a year.

This year, we are also replacing the banners at the top of the tower.

This leaflet explains why, and how the rewrapping process will be managed. Hopefully, it will answer any questions you may have, but don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you want more information.

What is the wrapping that covers the tower?

There are two layers of wrapping attached to the scaffolding around Grenfell Tower – a blue inner layer of wrapping and a white outer layer.

Why do you have the wrapping?

The two layers of wrapping protect the building from the weather and prevent any loose material falling into public places. The wrapping also sensitively and respectfully covers the building from view.

Why does only the white outer layer need replacing?

The outer layer of wrapping material deteriorates over time, and we need to replace it annually so that it continues to be effective. The blue inner layer will not be changed as it is not as exposed to the weather.

When will the wrapping and banners be replaced?

We’re scheduled to start the work in mid March. We’ll be replacing the white outer wrapping floor-by-floor and expect this to take about 10 weeks. The banners will be replaced at the same time. The timescale will depend on the weather. We’ll keep you updated on the progress and on whether the timescales are likely to change.

Why do the banners need to be replaced? Will they look the same as before?

The banners need to be changed as the banner material has deteriorated because of exposure to the weather. The replacement banners are identical to the previous banners.

What will I be able to see while the wrapping and banners are being replaced?

As the white outer wrapping and banners are changed, there may be times when you can see some of the blue inner layer of wrapping and scaffolding. You will not be able to see into the building, however, as that will be covered by the inner wrapping.

What effect will changing the wrapping have on me?

The wrapping work will not create any risks to your health or extra noise for people living nearby. We understand that work in and around the tower may cause feelings of distress or anxiety. If you are feeling this way and need someone to talk to, please speak with your GP or contact the Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service on 020 8637 6279 (every day from 8am to 8pm) or 0800 0234 650 (overnight from 8pm).

For more information, go to www.grenfellwellbeing.com

Do you have any concerns about the stability of the tower?

No, the tower is stable. This has been confirmed by a range of experts, including an independent surveyor, structural engineering consultants and the Health and Safety Executive. We monitor the tower around the clock and continue to carry out routine work to ensure it remains stable.

How are you consulting with the local community about this work?

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is continuing to talk with local schools, residents, residents’ associations, community groups and neighbourhood teams about works on the Grenfell Tower site. We’d like to keep you updated about the rewrapping and site-related issues. If you’d like to receive our updates directly, please let us know by using the contact details at the end of this leaflet.

Are these works related to a decision about the future of the tower?

No, these are routine maintenance works.

Further information

You can keep up to date about the rewrapping work and the Grenfell Tower site in a number of ways:

• Email our site management team at GrenfellTowerSite@levellingup.gov.uk or call them on 0303 444 0011 – they’ll be happy to help if you have any comments or questions.

• Check the digital signs placed on the hoardings around the site.

• See our Grenfell Community Updates on GOV.UK or scan the QR code below.

• Sign up to receive these updates automatically by email.