Bin stores could be removed from high rises across Aberdeen following a spate of blazes in recent years.
The city council is taking the bins at Hazlehead’s Bruce House as part of a trial which could be rolled out to other blocks if successful.
In recent years there have been a number of fires in the city’s tower blocks, with some started in the bin rooms.
Sprinkler systems have been installed in blocks by the council, who have also been carrying out maintenance and education campaigns for residents in the 59 tower blocks across Aberdeen.
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Hazlehead, Queens Cross and Countesswells councillor Jennifer Stewart, who is also the council’s public protection convener, said the horrific Grenfell tower blaze in 2017 had been “a catalyst” for action.
Mrs Stewart said: “I welcome this move very much as this is something I have been in discussions with the council about this for a long time.
“But I think when Grenfell happened that acted as a real catalyst for action.
“I have been in discussions with the police, fire service and council about looking into moving the bins and I’m delighted that this trial will now happen.
“We have to take a long term view on the safety of residents and I’m hopeful, that if this is successful, it could be rolled out to other city tower blocks.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “We are testing a new approach to waste management at Bruce House and this will involve creation of new outside waste disposal areas for recycling, waste, and bulky items.
“The move will enhance fire safety in buildings and reduce costs arising from blocked bin chutes and dumped items in the building. If this approach is successful, we will look to do the same in other buildings.”
