A major incident has been declared in Bristol as residents in a tower block have been told to leave their homes “immediately” due to a “risk to the structure”.

The city council has asked all tenants at Barton House, in the Redfield area, to leave “as a precautionary measure” while more in-depth inspections are carried out.

About 400 people reportedly live in the building.

Surveys at three of the 98 flats found there is a “risk to the structure of the block” in the event of a fire, explosion or large impact.

Anyone who can stay with relatives or friends is being urged to do so, while the remainder will be housed in a temporary rest centre at the Tawfiq Masjid and Centre mosque where beds, food and drink will be available.

More rest centres are “in the process” of being set up, but it is not known how long residents will have to be away from their homes.

A council statement said: “The length of this temporary arrangement is dependent on a further survey of the building, which is being arranged to happen as soon as possible.

“All tenants will be kept regularly informed of progress and any updates on support arrangements.”

The council also said there is “no evidence” to “suggest there is any immediate risk to health and life”.

The statement added that Barton House is the oldest of the tower blocks in the council housing estate, with building work completed in 1958.

“The design and age of Barton House make it unique within the council’s housing estate. There is currently no evidence to suggest the issues identified within Barton House are present elsewhere, although the council is regularly surveying its estate as it works to meet all regulatory requirements,” it said.

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