Choice Housing has confirmed that it has engaged structural engineers to carry out a “full internal and external survey” of Westbridge House in Enniskillen as a precaution following concerns raised regarding large cracks that have appeared on the exterior of the building.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

Westbridge House is a sheltered living scheme owned by independent housing association, Choice Housing, which comprises 30 self-contained apartments and is based at Ann Street, Enniskillen.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

The Impartial Reporter contacted Choice Housing regarding the cracks appearing on the building after a resident of Westbridge House raised their concerns over the issue.

When asked if Choice Housing was investigating the cause of the cracks and what was being done to ensure residents’ safety, a spokesperson said: “The safety and wellbeing of our tenants is of paramount importance to us.

“We have conducted some initial surveys of Westbridge House. These surveys have highlighted cracking of the external render in some areas.

“These cracks are not normally structural; however, as a precaution, we have engaged structural engineers to carry out a full internal and external survey.

Above, main: Large cracks visible at Westbridge House, Enniskillen. Photos by John McVitty.

Above, main: Large cracks visible at Westbridge House, Enniskillen. Photos by John McVitty.

“At this time we do not envisage any risk to the residents or the public.”

This newspaper also contacted Environmental Health and Building Control at Fermanagh and Omagh District Council regarding the issue.

A Council spokesperson said: “Neither Environmental Health nor Building Control were contacted about the health and safety concerns of Westbridge House.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

Westbridge House, Enniskillen.

“As a result of this query, Building Control staff will liaise with the building owner on the matter.”