TOWER blocks in Thurrock are not covered in dangerous cladding used on Grenfell Tower, the council has confirmed.

In a bid to reassure residents across the borough, the council has issued a Frequently Asked Questions document to residents. It explains a number of issues which have arisen as a result of the horrific tragedy in West London.

Council officials revealed that 12 of the borough’s 15 tower blocks has been fitted with cladding externally.

The cladding, which was installed more than ten years ago, is made of material which has the highest possible fire safety rating.

In the statement, a council spokesman said: “The materials used were not the same as those used at Grenfell Tower which was aluminium composite material.

“The council is commissioning an independent assessment of the cladding systems that have been used. This will ensure that all fire stopping measures are in place and meet legislative requirements.

“The council has not been asked by the government to do this but are doing it as an extra precaution to ensure we are doing everything to offer both reassurance and protection to our residents.”

In response to the tragedy - which killed at least 79 people and increased apprehension from residents who live in tower blocks, one woman has launched her own campaign to ensure the community get the answers they need.

Charlotte Milne, who lives in a high rise block in Grays, has created the group Thurrock High Rise Protection.

The mum-of-two said: “The main reason for campaigning is of course for the safety of the residents in the high rises and to ensure that we are truly safe in where we live.

“I also want to try and get what the residents want to feel safe within their accommodation so I can pass this on to the council.

“I want to show the council how frightened people are to live in these high rises now and how much we need reassurance.” You can find Charlotte’s campaign on Facebook.

Visit thurrock.gov.uk