Call for sprinklers in all Shropshire new builds
Shropshire council should insist that sprinklers are included in any new-builds according to a former firefighter.
Councillor Kevin Pardy, wants the council to look at ways it can “insist developers include sprinkler systems in new build”.
The Sundorne Councillor, who previously worked as a firefighter, is also asking for the council to lobby the government to change legislation so that the devices are included in new properties by law.
In a written question to be considered at full council today Councillor Pardy draws on his own experience in the wake of the IRA bombings in Shrewsbury as evidence of the effect of sprinklers.
He said: “It is stated that not one life has been lost where sprinkler systems have been in situ and that damage to property can be very much reduced, indeed I was in attendance on the night of the IRA bombings in Shrewsbury August 1992.
“On this night incendiary devices and a bomb exploded in Shrewsbury Castle causing devastating damage, other incendiary devices were placed in Staks furniture shop in the Charles Darwin Centre and in Wades under the Market Hall.
“On arrival at Staks breathing apparatus wearers searched the building and found that the fire was extinguished, Staks had a sprinkler system in place.
“Will the council be lobbying HM Government to devise legislation in order that all new build, including domestic homes, will as part of building regulations insist on sprinkler systems being fitted.
“And in the meantime will Shropshire Council explore ways in which it can insist that developers include sprinkler systems in new build.”
In a written response Councillor Robert Macey the portfolio holder for planning and regulatory services would not be drawn on the question of lobbying over the changes but said the council follows national building regulations.
He said: “Shropshire Council applies the national building regulations in relation to matters of fire safety.
“In England there is no requirement to install domestic sprinklers but they can be considered where the usual fire safety guidance cannot be achieved as a compensatory feature for life safety purposes.”
