Gentoo begins investigation after high rise flat block residents were left without heating for three days during freezing temperatures

Gentoo bosses have revealed that an investigation has been launched to discover the source of problem which caused high rise flat residents to be without heating for three days.
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Residents at Church Street and Dock Street tower blocks in the Monkwearmouth area of Sunderland had to endure freezing temperatures with no heating or hot water on Saturday, February 13, Sunday, February 14 and parts of Monday, February 15.

Thankfully, the hot water and heating have been restored to residents in both tower blocks via an alternative energy source – with staff from Gentoo and contractor Engie remaining on site throughout the week to support those living there.

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The Echo understands that the ground source heating system, which takes heat from the earth’s core and transfers it into renewable energy, had broken down.

Residents at Dock Street and Church Street tower blocks were left without heating and hot water for three days.Residents at Dock Street and Church Street tower blocks were left without heating and hot water for three days.
Residents at Dock Street and Church Street tower blocks were left without heating and hot water for three days.
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Almost a week on, Gentoo have said that the reason for the fault still isn’t clear and that they are investigating to find the cause.

Nigel Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at Gentoo Group, has apologised to all the affected residents and confirmed that work into discovering the cause of the incident is ongoing.

Mr Wilson said: "We are pleased to confirm that full heat and hot water has been restored to both Church and Dock Street tower blocks via an alternative source.

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“Colleagues from Gentoo and contractor Engie have been on site throughout the week supporting residents and keeping them informed.

"Our investigation to find the cause of the issue is still ongoing. We would like to apologise once again to all residents for any inconvenience caused.”

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