Posted 17/07/2020

Updated Statement Regarding Watts Grove Issued 17 July 2020

Everyone at Swan / NU living continues to be  deeply saddened by the devastating incident which took place just over one week ago, when a crane collapsed at our Watts Grove construction site in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of June Harvey, who was tragically killed as a result of the incident. We recognise that whilst understanding how this happened will not ease the pain of the family, we are committed to fully supporting the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the authorities in their investigation. We  know this will be an exhaustive and robust independent investigation which will provide everyone, but particularly the family, with answers as to how this incident occurred.

We are also thinking of those who were injured and traumatised as a result of the incident and we hope for their recovery. We recognise that the whole community has been affected and are sincerely grateful to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and Gateway Housing Association for the positive support that they are providing at this difficult time.  

Currently, the incident site and surrounding area remains in the control of the emergency services and our teams are now working with the HSE and third-party contractors on the safest way to remove the crane. The position of the crane means that it is unsafe for the surrounding homes within the exclusion zone to be occupied. 

The removal of the crane will be a complex task, requiring thorough planning and will be conducted under the supervision of the HSE to ensure it is done safely.    

We recognise that, for those who are currently unable to return to their homes, the situation is incredibly difficult.    However, it is vital that everyone follows the authorities' guidance and remain outside of the exclusion zone to help avoid the risk of further injury.  

We are also collaborating with the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and adjoining owners in relation to the security of the incident site.

We would like to reassure everyone that we are fully committed, at every level of our organisation, to responding to this incident in a compassionate, professional and timely way whilst giving our full assistance to the investigating authorities.