UK: The Filigree, a BTR scheme operated by Get Living in Lewisham, south London, has been deemed uninhabitable for up to 12 months due to a major mains water pipe failure.
More than 400 residents of the new-build development in Link Way will be unable to return to their homes for at least six months, and possibly up to a year.
The incident occurred on February 27, when a failure in the mains water supply at The Filigree’s energy centre, which powers three buildings in the housing complex, led to basement flooding.
The flooding caused water and power outages for some homes and reportedly knocked out the electrical panel for the emergency generator. Assessments have since revealed substantial damage, and a full investigation, expected to take six to eight weeks, is now underway.
Residents were initially provided with emergency accommodation, reportedly in budget hotels, by Get Living. They were also given a £150 allowance to book alternative accommodations, such as Airbnb, if preferred. Those staying with friends and family were eligible for up to £50 a night, plus £30 per day for food.
However, on March 19, residents were informed that the repair work to rebuild the energy centre could take between six and 12 months, significantly extending the displacement period. Many residents have expressed frustration, citing poor communication from Get Living, as reported by local newspaper News Shopper.
The £252 million BTR scheme in Lewisham comprises 649 new homes, including 424 for market rent and 106 affordable homes. It welcomed its first tenants in the summer of 2024.
In addition to residential units, the development was set to feature 88,000 square feet of retail, leisure, and food and beverage space, including a new cinema, for residents, visitors, and the local community.
Get Living has stated that it is working with developer Muse and main contractor Balfour Beatty to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. However, it has clarified that it cannot provide support to individuals without an existing tenancy agreement.
A spokesperson for Get Living said: “We feel for the plight of residents, who through this catastrophic infrastructure failure, are placed in a position of uncertainty, frustration, and disruption. Our residents remain our absolute top priority, and we are seeking to lessen the unavoidable disruption for them as much as possible during this time. We are sharing regular updates to ensure residents have the latest information as it becomes available and are continuing to provide daily allowances for accommodation, as well as food allowances for those staying in hotels or with friends.”
The Filigree is part of the Lewisham Gateway project, one of the largest regeneration schemes in south-east London.
The project is led by regeneration specialist Muse in collaboration with the London Borough of Lewisham, the Mayor of London, and Transport for London, with support from Homes England.
