ALMOST a year on since a burst water supply flooded Brisbane House tower block in Tilbury, the leader of Thurrock Council has praised council teams and residents in a neighbouring block.

Cllr Richard Bingley took centre stage to highlight the authority's work to 'clean up' Tasmania House and improve safety there.

After last year's dramatic flood that caused the evacuation and closure of Brisbane House, which saw residents being relocated for months while recovery work was completed, tenants from Tasmania, Brisbane and site's third block, Fremantle House signed an online petition and claimed there have already been complaints about leaks, electrical faults, heating and dampness.

Now the council is flagging up improved conditions, saying: "Residents at Tasmania House are enjoying a safer and cleaner living environment following a successful operation to tackle fire safety risks and fly-tipping in communal areas.

"Housing teams, working alongside caretakers, CCTV Services, Environmental Enforcement officers and residents, addressed concerns about items being stored in communal corridors and significant amounts of combustible waste that had been fly-tipped outside the block.

"The operation resulted in large volumes of stored belongings and bulk waste being removed, restoring clear access to emergency escape routes and significantly reducing potential fire hazards within the building.

"As well as improving safety, the project has enhanced the appearance of the communal areas and reinforced the importance of keeping shared spaces free from obstructions for the benefit of all residents."

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Cllr Bingley adds: "This operation at Tasmania House is a great example of different teams working together with residents to make a real difference. Keeping communal areas clear is vital for fire safety and ensures everyone can safely leave the building in an emergency.

The council has highlighted its improvement work by issuing before and after pictures.

"I would like to thank the residents, caretakers, housing staff and partner services who helped make this project a success."

Residents are reminded by the council that communal corridors, stairwells and landings must be kept free from personal belongings and other items that could obstruct escape routes or contribute to the spread of fire.