A SPRINKLER system has been installed in case of fire as part of a refurbishment of a sheltered housing scheme.

The 36-flat block in Magnolia Drive, run by Colchester Borough Homes on behalf of Colchester Council has seen the fire protection system installed after funding was boosted by a £50,000 grant from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.

Sprinkler systems kick in automatically so if a fire breaks out water is sprayed into the affected room to contain and extinguish the blaze while fire officers make their way to the scene.

Chief fire officer Adam Eckley praised Colchester Council for taking the precautions.

He said: "“Simply put, sprinklers offer the best fire protection available. They prevent fires from spreading by containing them to the room where they break out and often will completely extinguish a fire almost immediately.

“They are also proven life savers, there are no recorded cases of multiple fire deaths in premises where sprinklers are fitted.

“It is fantastic Colchester Council has taken these steps to protect their residents, and we are pleased that with our help these homes now have the best fire protection available.”

Housing boss Tina Bourne (Lab) said: "The refurbishment of Enoch House is a wonderful partnership project providing secure tenancies and safe accommodation for many of the Borough’s older and more vulnerable residents.

“On behalf of Colchester Council and Colchester Borough Homes, I would like to thank the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service whose part-funding of the new sprinkler system will continue to ensure residents feel protected in their new homes.”

Julie Young (Lab) who represents Greenstead, had urged cabinet members to ensure sprinklers systems are retro-fitted into sheltered accommodations and Houses of Multiple Occupations.

She said: "We do not want a Grenfell in Colchester.

"I think if there had been a sprinkler system then there would not have been the loss of life we saw there.

"We need to focus on buildings where the exit may be compromised."