Joint Statement of Chair and Chief Executive regarding Watts Grove

Issued 9 July 2020 8.45am

As Chair and Chief Executive of Swan Housing Association, we are deeply saddened by the tragic incident which occurred at our Watts Grove construction site yesterday afternoon. 

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family who have lost their loved one as a result of the incident.  Your loss is a personal tragedy.  We recognise that whilst understanding how this happened will not ease your pain, we would like to reassure you on behalf of our organisation that we will fully support the Health and Safety Executive and the authorities in their investigation so that you can receive a full, transparent answer to how this incident took place.

Our thoughts are also with those who were injured and their families. We wish them a speedy recovery.  We are also thinking of the wider local community who have had to leave their homes as a safety precaution.   Our staff are on standby to help the Borough and Local Housing providers ensure that you are supported through this difficult time.

We would like to thank the emergency services for their swift and dedicated response and those who are supporting residents affected.     We have never experienced a situation like this before and it is something that no organisation ever wishes to happen.  We therefore stand ready to respond fully to support the investigation to understand what has occurred to cause this incident.  

 Valerie Owen,                                                            John Synnuck,

Chair                                                                           Chief Executive