Flats are evacuated after flooding

David Moroney • Published 13 Mar 2010 14:00

A GREENOCK tower block had to be evacuated, with more than 20 families taken to temporary accommodation, after vandals flooded the building.

Some Peebles Court residents were taken to a nearby community centre for the night after their building was flooded.

Vandals fractured a mains water pipe during a break-in, causing

extensive flooding which left 23 families in need of temporary accommodation.

Three flats are so badly damaged their occupants are having to be rehoused.

A spokesman for RCH said: "Vandals broke into a flat in Peebles Court on Tuesday and damaged a mains water pipe, causing extensive flooding to the block.

"Housing officers from River Clyde Homes and staff from Inverclyde Council responded quickly, and made arrangements for Craigend Resource Centre to remain open as an emergency centre.

"Temporary accommodation was made available to those who required it. However most made arrangements to stay with other family members.

"Only a handful had to be accommodated overnight in other places, which were arranged by Inverclyde Council's social work services.

"The following day, a flat-by-flat inspection was carried out by River Clyde Homes.

"Three flats have been damaged to such an extent they are uninhabitable and these tenants are currently being rehoused."

Police are investigating reports of similar incidents in the area.

A boiler was stolen from a property in Belville Street at around 3.15am on Friday.

DI John Dearie, from Greenock CID, said: "We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anyone in the area in possession of a boiler or who may be aware of their theft.

"The thefts can also cause damage to properties and other flats. Boilers and water tanks are stolen for scrap value.

"We will be making inquiries into possible places of disposal for these items."

Anyone with any information relating to the theft or sale of boilers can contact Greenock police on 492500.

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This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 13 Mar 10

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