Controversial cladding was added to Grenfell Tower in part to improve the view for nearby luxury flats.
According to planning documents for the tower block, which were seen in the wake of the devastating blaze, the cladding was partly designed to improve the building’s appearance for wealthier neighbours.
Grenfell Tower was built in 1974 and housed low-income families in Latimer Road, North Kensington.
When it was refurbished, at a cost of £8.6m, plastic cladding was installed on the outside of the building.
Planning documents said the appearance of the high-rise building – which is visible across the borough – should be improved.
It read: ‘The changes to the existing tower will improve its appearance especially when viewed from the surrounding area.’
The document makes repeated reference to the ‘appearance of the area’, according to the Independent.
Death toll from Grenfell Tower fire set to rise significantly
It has now been suggested that the added cladding exacerbated the spread of the flames which have killed at least 12 people.
Arnold Tarling, from property company Hindwoods, said cladding creates 25mm-30mm cavities between the buildings insulation.
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http://metro.co.uk/2017/06/14/cladding-added-to-grenfell-tower-to-improve-view-for-nearby-luxury-flats-6709369/Told you.