Bristol tower block sees 400 residents evacuated after major structural problems are discovered in the 15-storey building

Up to 400 residents of a Bristol tower block were forced to evacuate last night after major structural problems were discovered.

Surveys conducted at Barton House on Cotton Mill Lane found there was a 'risk to the structure' of the 15-storey building.

Bristol City Council yesterday asked tenants to leave immediately 'as a precautionary measure' while more in-depth inspections are carried out.

Anyone who could stay with relatives or friends were being urged to do so 'for a short period of time'.

Others residents were housed in a temporary rest centre at the Tawfiq Masjid & Centre mosque, where beds, food and drink were made available.

A council spokesman said: 'The length of this temporary arrangement is dependent on a further survey of the building, which is being arranged to happen as soon as possible.

'All tenants will be kept regularly informed of progress and any updates on support arrangements.

'The cautious approach being taken to Barton House is to ensure that no unnecessary risk is taken with the wellbeing of those who live there.

'No evidence has been presented to suggest there is any immediate risk to health and life.'

But residents were unimpressed with the decision, with one telling ITV News: 'The only thing I knew is I received a message on Facebook saying there is something wrong in Barton Hill. My flat has been bad for two to three months- leaking leaking leaking, half of the ceiling just came away - literally about a month ago.

'I've been trying to get in touch with the council leaving messages - nothing. It's rotten from bottom to top - damp, mould, everybody's got it.

'This place should have been knocked down years ago. I don't know what's going on. I haven't got a clue.'

The council said there is 'no evidence' that the issues affecting the block of flats, which was built in 1958, are present elsewhere in the estate.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service said further information will be made available to tenants 'on an ongoing basis'.

Meanwhile, in Leeds hundreds of people were briefly evacuated from their homes over fears a 200ft crane could collapse from Storm Debi.