More than 21 months after a fatal fire at a retirement housing block in Hinchley Wood, residents have begun moving back in to the rebuilt accommodation.

The first resident moved back to Gibson Court in Manor Road North on Monday, July 16.

The fire was caused by a television set catching light and spreading throughout the retirement development in the early hours of September 30, 2011, killing 87-year-old grandmother Irene Cockerton.

Residents were moved into alternative accommodation while the apartment block was rebuilt and were initially told they would be able to move back during March 2013.

The re-occupancy date was then pushed back to June this year after wet weather conditions hindered progress.

During phases one and two of the rebuild, everything was taken out of the development, leaving only the main structure in place.

The structure was strengthened, had a new roof built and external windows and doors replaced.

The final phase of the rebuild saw the refitting of internal areas of the building, including apartments and communal areas.

A Peverel spokesman said: “All residents have the opportunity to move in by the end of July but some have decided to wait until August or September.

“We anticipate about 20 properties will be occupied, with 30 available for new occupants.”

A Surrey Police spokesman said: “Police and fire investigators carried out a detailed and complex investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire and earlier this month consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) took place.

“Following a review of all the information provided the CPS determined there was insufficient evidence for any criminal action to be taken against any party and the matter is no longer being investigated by Surrey Police.”

A Surrey Council County spokeswoman said an investigation led by Surrey Fire and Rescue Service was still ongoing and would continue until after the inquest into Mrs Cockerton’s death, a date for which is yet to be set.