A PROJECT to replace cladding on two Oxford tower blocks following the Grenfell Tower disaster has been completed – weeks ahead of schedule.

Oxford City Council said it is among the first councils in the country to complete the work, after setting aside £1m to replace flammable cladding on Evenlode and Windrush Towers in Blackbird Leys last year and starting in January.

It said it has completed the work within budget and is now seeking to secure the funds back from the Government after Prime Minister Theresa May announced a £400m recladding fund in May.

Mike Rowley, the council’s board member for housing, said: “I’m pleased that we have completed the replacement of cladding on the two tower blocks ahead of schedule and given the residents added reassurance that they’re safe in their own homes.”

The city council said works to new entrances at the tower blocks will continue until the middle of next month.

After the Grenfell disaster in June 2017, the city council worked with Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to review safety measures in the tower blocks.

The flats had already been enhanced when sprinklers were fitted as part of a £20m renovation project of five tower blocks, including Evenlode and Windrush. The project, which begun in January 2016, eventually went £650,000 over budget.

Mr Rowley added: “The ongoing Grenfell inquiry is likely to lead to recommendations to the Government that may lead to further changes in guidance in relation to fire safety.

“The council will adopt any such changes as advised by the Government.”