The Trusts Arena was designed with some sections of its roof built using ACP panels. Over the last two years we have been working with our stakeholders on a plan to replace the panels because of performance issues unrelated to any risk from fire. The Grenfell disaster and the subsequent information released about the panels in that circumstance prompted us to commission a fire report to analyse any risk in the interim period before the panels are replaced.

The conclusion of the report was: “The ACP cladding fitted to parts of the Trusts Arena met the requirements of the Building Code at the time that it was installed and there is currently no requirement to remove or replace it. However, it is our recommendation that additional measures are put in place, until the cladding is removed.”

Those additional measures included moving a rubbish enclosure which has been done and the remainder relate to staffing of exits and some additional fire extinguishers. Any external vendors are also to be sited away from the building. The local fire brigade are aware of our management plan and event schedules. All of the measures have been adopted and are in effect.

Taking into account the views of the fire report and our existing fire systems, including sprinkler systems, which are robust and compliant, we have no hesitation in continuing to operate business as usual. We will of course continue to liaise with our fire engineers and take their direction and guidance on any changes to the environment.

Mark Gosling, CEO The Trusts Arena.

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