New gap in wall that killed toddler Saurav Ghai - but, fresh crack nothing to worry about say council inspectors

Published: 07 July 2011
by TOM FOOT

A FRESH crack that has appeared in a rebuilt wall that collapsed and crushed a toddler to death is nothing to worry about, according to council inspectors.

The two-inch wide gash exposes foam and fillings in the wall which replaced the section in Southampton Road, Gospel Oak, which killed Saurav Ghai in January 2007. The council was fined £72,000 after being prosecuted by the Health and Safety following two-year-old Saurav’s death.

The New Journal sent images of the crack on the new wall to the council on Monday. Officials said a “movement in the wall was noted on January 27”. But a spokeswoman said it had been checked and ruled safe. She added: “The engineer reported that there was no danger. A further inspection has been undertaken by the independent engineer responsible for the design of the wall who has also confirmed that the wall is safe.”

The council is encouraging residents to take part in “wall watch” and report and concerns.