Four months after an arson attack, residents of a block of flats in Thornton Heath are still waiting for vital council repairs to tighten up security.

The intercom system at the block was destroyed in the fire, heightening fears among tenants about a repeat fire attack or burglars, who have already struck at least once since.

James Keenan, 54, has lived in sheltered accommodation on the sixth floor of the block for five years, and claims Croydon Council have put him and fellow residents at risk.

He told the Guardian: "Residents are very upset and concerned.

"I went to ask one old lady to sign the petition but she was too frightened to even open the door.

"Word has got around that the main door is open and I've seen groups of youngsters who don't live here smoking dope on the steps of the bottom floor."

Mr Keenan said he has seen gangs walking into the block nearly every day often riding up and down in the lift.

Residents have no control over who comes in and out and they are unable to speak to or quiz visitors through the system.

Mr Keenan claims the council is not acting quickly enough despite his numerous complaints in person at the housing department.

"A good electrician could have it done in a day. I think we have a right to feel safe in our own homes it's not right if you have to put bars up on your window is it?"

William Potter, 84, has lived on the first floor for 13 years and recently fitted metal bars to his door after an attempted break-in to his flat.

He said: "I think if the main door had been fixed sooner this wouldn't have happened to me."

A spokesman for Croydon Council confirmed there is concern over a long term lack of security at Wingate Crescent.

She said the delay was so that work on the lifts and the decorating could be done first.

"We are aware only some of the work has been completed following the fire, and we are told they will be starting work on the security system within the next few days."

October 23, 2001 17:00