The Government details sweeping construction and fire safety reforms
In September 2024, the Grenfell Tower Inquiry published their final report on the tragedy that claimed 72 lives and rocked an entire community. In their full response (26th February), the Government said they will make tough reforms to construction, building, and fire safety. It will change the industry, improving standards and making homes safer. As a top provider of high end residential architecture in London, we want to take a closer look at some of the key changes to come.
The report
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry criticises the construction industry, government, and even the London Fire Brigade. They found a pattern of 'systematic dishonesty'. Most damningly, stakeholders did not take fire safety risks into account and did not listen to resident's feedback. In addition, the regulations were poor and successive governments did not take action. This was a preventable tragedy, and demands justice.
Government response
Earlier this week the Government gave their response to the report. They will take action on all 58 recommendations in the report, accepting 49 of them "in full". This will hold the construction industry accountable, and ensure an event like Grenfell can't happen again.
There will be some significant reforms. Perhaps most notable will be the creation of a new construction regulator. They will ensure the stakeholders responsible for building safety are accountable. It will strengthen oversight and improve standards.
In addition, there will be tougher rules for those responsible for testing, certifying, manufacturing, and using various construction materials. It means there will be no repeat of hiding or ignoring the potential health and safety or fire risks. This will have a significant impact on everything from residential architecture in London to public buildings in other parts of the UK.
The reforms will also empower residents. It will give tenants strong, clear, enforceable legal rights. Landlords will have to act on any safety concerns. Social housing residents will have the power to demand high quality, safe housing.
There will also be a big change in terms of transparency. One of the worst things about Grenfell was the actions of different stakeholders to attempt to hide their failings and pass on the blame. However, a new publicly accessible record of inquiry recommendations will ensure all concerns are recorded.
What next?
The Government will make steady progress on the reforms during the course of this parliament. There will be three phases. Firstly, in 2025-2026 they will work to deliver the current programme of reforms. Secondly, in 2026-2028 they will fully develop proposals for wider reforms. Finally, from 2028 they will implement them.
There will be work to monitor and review reform progress too. This includes a report every quarter from mid 2025 and an update to Parliament annually. The new systems will be under review, with further changes possible to improve effectiveness and respond to tenant feedback.
Do you want help with residential architecture in London?
At Coffey Architects, we focus on designing high quality high end homes. One of our core beliefs is that people deserve safe, high quality housing. We'll design every property with this in mind, while also taking care to make sure they are light, comfortable, and a joy to live in.
So, if you are planning residential architecture in London, speak to us. Our award winning team will give you all the support you need, with friendly advice about any topic.