Fatal Darlington unit block fire: Police set to re-open apartment building under strict protocols

A deadly fire that killed a man in a Sydney apartment complex has seen police impose a series of strict rules for residents accessing the building. See what it means.

Emergency services on scene at the fire last month. Picture: NCA Newswire/ Gaye Gerard

NSW Police have revealed the strict protocols residents of a Sydney building gutted by a deadly fire will have to follow.

Emergency services rushed to the Darlington building on August 30 following reports of a fire, before first responders located the body of a man.

Police are now reopening specific units under restricted access.

“Residents still need to ensure they have made plans for alternative accommodation until at least Monday 11th September 2023, as making the property safe for residents on the unaffected side remains a complex matter,” a NSW Police spokeswoman said.

Fire Crews and Police on the scene of the fire last month. Picture: NCA Newswire/ Gaye Gerard

On September 6, between the hours of 4:00 and 4:30pm, Units 1 to 9 and 15 to 17 will be granted restricted access to pick up personal belongings and clear out fridges – but only if they adhere to strict protocol procedures which includes pre-registering by emailing or calling.

Residents were told on Tuesday that they will only be able to access the building via the bin room through the Shepherd Le stairs into the garage, however, people living in Units 10, 11, 13, 14, 18 and 19 will not be allowed access to the building at all.

The building was on fire on August 30. Picture: NCA Newswire/ Gaye Gerard

NSW Police representatives forcast multiple steps to be taken to ensure the building is safe which include minor, internal demolition works, with security patrolling the site at night.

“The NSW Police Force has handed the site to the Strata Insurance team of engineers and contractors to make safe the property,” the representative said.

In order to enter an apartment, residents must provide security guards a copy of a photo ID that matches the resident listed on the Strata roll.

An exclusion zone remains in place as emergency services personnel and engineers work toward ensuring the safety of the surrounding area and the structural integrity of the building.
“Additional communication will follow specifically for the residents/occupiers of 10, 11, 13, 14 and 18, on when they can access their property for personal belongings and to clear out their fridges,” Police said.

“If demolition and restoring of power goes to plan, all units except 14, 18 and 19 should be able to return home in the afternoon or evening of September 11.”