Team response to emergency

All students staying at Middlesex University halls of residence, in Aerodrome Road, Colindale, are safe and well after an emergency plan put together by Servite Houses ensured all students were safely evacuated and re-housed when a fire was discovered on the neighbouring St George PLC development.

As soon as we became aware of the fire, students were evacuated from all halls on the site – owned and managed by Servite Houses - and moved to a safe distance.

An emergency room to co-ordinate the activity of Servite staff and the displaced students was set up immediately.

The displaced students, 182 international EAC students and approximately 120 from Middlesex University, have been provided with alternative accommodation in Usher Hall,  The Burroughs, near Hendon; Ivy Hall in Cricklewood, Hendon, and Wood Green Hall, in Wood Green.

They will be transported to and from their lessons by coach and taxi, where necessary.
Deliveries of food have kindly been made to the students by Sainsbury’s.

Chris Baines, head of Commercial Services at Servite Houses, said: "I am immensely impressed with the way the emergency plan has been followed and Servite staff have gone way beyond their usual enthusiasm and commitment to providing services for the students.

"We would like to thank Middlesex University, their contractors and student union representatives, Trident Security, Goldenboys coaches and Sainsbury’s who have all responded magnificently to the emergency. It is a shining example of how well partners can pull together to overcome adversity.”

One block of Platt Halls, the building closest to the St George PLC site, suffered roof damage and several windows were blown out. At this stage we do not believe there is any structural damage to the building.

Students will be able to return to safe and undamaged accommodation at Colindale Halls when the emergency services are satisfied there is no further danger.

Servite have provided the following telephone number to tell any concerned relatives and friends where each student has been re-housed. Callers are reminded everyone is safe and well. The number is 0208 203 0576.

Ends

Press release issued: July 13 2006