Death trap fire flats too costly to repair

Conor Feehan

A LUXURY apartment block in Dundrum that was evacuated because it breached fire regulations is to be sold off because the problem is too expensive to fix.

Up to 130 residents in 75 apartments -- who all rent their homes -- were forced to leave The Laurels development, opposite Dundrum town centre, in July when the problem was discovered during routine repair work.

Initially, they had been told they would be able to move back in after three months when repairs costing an estimated €1m were carried out.

But after further examination, it was discovered the repair work would take much longer than first anticipated.

Earlier this month, residents were told to seek longer term accommodation, but now it has been decided that the cost of repairs are too high, making them prohibitive.

The company which owned the building went out of business some years ago, and receivers KPMG has now decided to put it on the market.

KPMG said it is helping tenants to secure alternative accommodation.

cfeehan@herald.ie

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