Grosvenor Estate statement about Bridge Street Row structural problem

Feb 11 2010 by Claire Devine, Chester Chronicle

Grosvenor Estate spokeswoman Jane Sandars said: “A major structural problem has been identified in the building at 15, Bridge Street Row in the centre of Chester.

“This came to light during a routine visit when hairline cracks were noticed by our surveying team and it was decided to check the structural integrity of the building.

“On February 9 the building was surveyed in detail and a major structural weakness identified in a particular supporting beam which was found to be rotten.

“We immediately notified the local authority who decided to evacuate the building, currently occupied by the Panasonic store and Sayers the Bakers. Seven other neighbouring businesses will be directly affected until the building is made safe.

“We are working in full co-operation with the local council and all relevant authorities to ensure the necessary repairs are made as swiftly as possible in order to minimise disruption.

“However, public safety is our paramount concern and we will not allow access until both the Grosvenor Estate and the key authorities are certain that the repairs have been completed and that the public risk has been eliminated.”