STALYBRIDGE TORNADO: Council issues dangerous building notices to 50 properties

Council inspectors are assessing houses and businesses damaged by the tornado which tore through Stalybridge last week.

If the Building Control service issues a notice it means emergency repair work needs to be carried out usually residents will be unable to return until the work is complete.

A council spokesman said: "We know this is a difficult time for the affected residents and their families causing huge upheaval, especially at this time of year, and we are working as quickly as possible to now issue notices.

"The Council is required to serve notices as part of our statutory duty and it is part of the process which will enable residents’ to get their insurers to take action if they haven’t already.

"In all cases where a notice is served the advice to residents is that they must contact their insurance company to notify them as this will enable their insurance company to determine steps to repair their home and provide alternative accommodation where necessary.

"We continue to deal with the aftermath of storm Gerrit and the localised tornado, which has meant a huge clean-up operation across the borough as well as ongoing building inspections. Any new reports of storm damage/fallen trees/debris can be reported by calling 0161 342 2222."