Building Safety recap November, 2025 - Revision history

Editor at 10:34, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T10:34:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:34, 11 December 2025
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	= In brief =		= In brief =

−	== ~~Missed in~~ October ==	+	== October gaps in brief ==

	In October 2025, key developments in UK building safety included piloted changes to accelerate Gateway 2 approvals and new Gateway 3 guidance from the Building Safety Regulator, alongside 152 new build and 253 remediation applications being processed with support from the Innovation Unit and batching pilots. The Edge Debate 187 highlighted the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation to strengthen research and evidence-based guidance, while a Construction Leadership Council webinar offered practical advice to improve Gateway 2 submissions and speed up approvals.		In October 2025, key developments in UK building safety included piloted changes to accelerate Gateway 2 approvals and new Gateway 3 guidance from the Building Safety Regulator, alongside 152 new build and 253 remediation applications being processed with support from the Innovation Unit and batching pilots. The Edge Debate 187 highlighted the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation to strengthen research and evidence-based guidance, while a Construction Leadership Council webinar offered practical advice to improve Gateway 2 submissions and speed up approvals.

Editor at 10:32, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T10:32:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:32, 11 December 2025
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	= In brief =		= In brief =
		+
		+	== Missed in October ==
		+
		+	In October 2025, key developments in UK building safety included piloted changes to accelerate Gateway 2 approvals and new Gateway 3 guidance from the Building Safety Regulator, alongside 152 new build and 253 remediation applications being processed with support from the Innovation Unit and batching pilots. The Edge Debate 187 highlighted the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation to strengthen research and evidence-based guidance, while a Construction Leadership Council webinar offered practical advice to improve Gateway 2 submissions and speed up approvals.
		+
		+	== November in brief ==
		+
		+	Internationally the end of November saw one of the most horrific and catastrophic multi-tower fires of our times. The Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025 tore through eight scaffold-wrapped residential blocks under renovation, taking an enduring two days to extinguish. With death continuously rising during the short period after the fire with 160 people confirmed dead by 10 December, and dozens still missing. 13 individuals linked to the renovation works had also been arrested.
		+
		+	In the UK, November, alongside the numerous impacts of the Autumn Budget, the building safety and construction sectors saw other regulatory & operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted, while 36,023 units remain live. The new Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.
		+
		+	Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.
		+
		+	= In detail =

	== Missed in October ==		== Missed in October ==

	=== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ===		=== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ===
		+
		+	The October 2025 Building Safety Regulator (BSR) ebulletin from HSE highlights key progress and updates within the UK’s building safety regime: it reports on piloted operational changes to accelerate Gateway 2 approvals, showing a significant increase in decisions made and improvements in processing times for building control applications; it also emphasises the publication of new Gateway 3 guidance, focusing on ensuring high-rise residential buildings are safe to occupy by thoroughly scrutinising as-built evidence; the bulletin consolidates useful building safety guidance links covering the full lifecycle of high-risk buildings and invites industry feedback on a consultation about competence management standards for the built environment workforce.

	[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]		[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]

	=== Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ===		=== Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ===
		+
		+	The October 2025 Building Control Approval Application Data report from the Building Safety Regulator shows 152 new build applications (33,670 units) and 253 remediation applications (22,304 units) for higher‑risk buildings in England, with efforts underway to reduce backlogs and improve processing times. Initiatives such as the Innovation Unit and batching pilots aim to accelerate Gateway 2 and remediation approvals, addressing technical and capacity challenges within the building safety regime.

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]
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	=== Edge Debate 187: Why the UK needs a National Built Environment Research Organisation ===		=== Edge Debate 187: Why the UK needs a National Built Environment Research Organisation ===

−	The Edge Debate 187~~, held on~~ October 7, 2025~~, explored~~ the ~~need~~ for a National Built Environment Research Organisation (NBERO) to strengthen the UK’s construction and property sectors ~~through coordinated knowledge creation~~, ~~validation, and dissemination. With built environment activities contributing~~ over 20% of GDP ~~but receiving~~ only 0.8% of public university research funding~~, speakers,~~ including Dame Judith Hackitt, ~~industry representatives~~, and ~~academics~~ argued that an independent Public Sector Research Establishment could ~~provide~~ evidence-based guidance ~~for~~ practice, policymaking, and regulation~~, benefiting civil society~~, industry ~~stakeholders, supply chains~~, and ~~government. The event was chaired by Andy von Bradsky and welcomed by Peter Bonfield~~.	+	The Edge Debate 187 (7 October 2025) examined the case for establishing a National Built Environment Research Organisation (NBERO) to coordinate and strengthen research across the UK’s construction and property sectors, which account for over 20% of GDP yet receive only 0.8% of public university research funding. Speakers including Dame Judith Hackitt, academics, and industry leaders argued that an independent Public Sector Research Establishment could deliver validated, evidence-based guidance to improve practice, policymaking, and regulation for government, industry, and civil society.

	[https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000 https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000]		[https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000 https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000]

	=== Ways to improve Gateway 2 submissions to the Building Safety Regulator (September 2025) ===		=== Ways to improve Gateway 2 submissions to the Building Safety Regulator (September 2025) ===
		+
		+	Industry experts and practitioners discuss common pitfalls with applications, practical advice on preparing and structuring information to meet regulator expectations, and insights into how developers and design teams can better align their technical submissions with regulatory requirements to speed up approvals and reduce delays.

	[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]		[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]
−
−	~~== November in brief ==~~
−
−	Internationally the end of November saw one of the most horrific and catastrophic multi-tower fires of our times. The Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025 tore through eight scaffold-wrapped residential blocks under renovation, taking an enduring two days to extinguish. With death continuously rising during the short period after the fire with 160 people confirmed dead by 10 December, and dozens still missing. 13 individuals linked to the renovation works had also been arrested.
−
−	In the UK, November, the building safety and construction sectors saw a number regulatory & operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted, while 36,023 units remain live. The new Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.
−
−	Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.
−
−	~~= In detail =~~

	== November in detail ==		== November in detail ==
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	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]		[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]
		+
		+	=== The 2025 Autumn Budget and building safety. 26 November, 2025 ===
		+
		+	The 2025 UK Autumn Budget positions building safety as a central, long-term priority, using fiscal measures to reinforce the post-Grenfell regulatory regime established by the Building Safety Act 2022. Central to this is the now delayed Building Safety Levy which will raise an estimated £3.4 billion over the next decade to help fund cladding and fire-safety remediation without shifting costs onto leaseholders, supplementing the £5.1 billion already committed by the government. While the Budget supports major housing programmes and wider development goals, industry groups warn that the levy, combined with broader cost pressures, may constrain housing supply and disproportionately affect smaller builders. Cladding remediation continues to be supported indirectly through the levy and expanded schemes such as the Cladding Safety Scheme, though regulatory delays at the Building Safety Regulator and gateway bottlenecks have drawn criticism from the House of Lords. Overall, the Budget strengthens the financial framework needed to deliver remediation and enforce higher safety standards, but its success will depend on balancing funding certainty, regulatory capacity and the construction sector’s ability to absorb new compliance costs.
		+
		+	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_2025_Autumn_Budget_and_building_safety https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_2025_Autumn_Budget_and_building_safety]

	=== BSR record Gateway 2 determinations in Nov. Approval application data Aug to Nov 2025. ===		=== BSR record Gateway 2 determinations in Nov. Approval application data Aug to Nov 2025. ===

Editor at 09:38, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T09:38:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:38, 11 December 2025
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	[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]		[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]

−	== November in ~~[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details b]rief~~ ==	+	== November in brief ==

−	In November 2025, the UK building safety and construction sectors saw regulatory ~~and~~ operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted ~~between August and November~~, while 36,023 units remain live. The Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.	+	Internationally the end of November saw one of the most horrific and catastrophic multi-tower fires of our times. The Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025 tore through eight scaffold-wrapped residential blocks under renovation, taking an enduring two days to extinguish. With death continuously rising during the short period after the fire with 160 people confirmed dead by 10 December, and dozens still missing. 13 individuals linked to the renovation works had also been arrested.
		+
		+	In the UK, November, the building safety and construction sectors saw a number regulatory & operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted, while 36,023 units remain live. The new Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.

	Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.		Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.

Editor at 09:31, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T09:31:14Z

Editor at 09:28, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T09:28:57Z

Show changes

Editor at 09:24, 11 December 2025

2025-12-11T09:24:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:24, 11 December 2025
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	== November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] ==		== November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] ==

−	=== ~~Wing Article~~ ===	+	=== [[File:2025 Tai Po apartment fire CC commons 1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]] ===

−	~~Hong Kong fire death toll rises to 146 as thousands pay respects~~. ~~28 November~~	+	=== [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025] ===

−	~~[https://www~~.~~bbc~~.~~com/news/articles/cp34yk7z6yxo https://www~~.~~bbc~~.~~com/news/articles/cp34yk7z6yxo]~~	+	A horrific and catastrophic multi-tower fire erupted at Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court estate on 26 November 2025, tearing through eight scaffold-wrapped residential blocks under renovation and ultimately killing at least 160 people by 10 December, with dozens still missing. Fire spread rapidly up bamboo scaffolding and across buildings, likely accelerated by combustible green netting and foam window coverings that failed safety standards, while collapsing scaffolds and reported alarm malfunctions hampered escape and firefighting. The blaze was extinguished on 28 November, but devastation became clear only after days of searches, with over 1,100 residents displaced and major relief funds mobilised. Authorities arrested 13 individuals linked to the renovation works and suspended related projects as investigations examine unsafe temporary materials, compromised fire-safety systems, and regulatory lapses that allowed the disaster to unfold. Article by Wing Tsang (LMC).

−	~~=== BSR record Gateway 2 determinations in November~~. ~~Aapproval application data August to November 2025 ===~~	+	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]

−	The Building Safety Regulator’s (BSR) latest Gateway 2 (GW2) update demonstrates ~~thesustained~~ positive impact of its pilot processes for high-rise residential building control applications.	+	=== BSR record Gateway 2 determinations in November. Approval application data August to November 2025 ===
		+
		+	The Building Safety Regulator’s (BSR) latest Gateway 2 (GW2) update demonstrates the sustained positive impact of its pilot processes for high-rise residential building control applications.

	Between August and November 2025, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) received new applications for 16,313 residential units and issued approvals for 11,138 units, with 36,023 units still in live cases, reflecting increasing throughput under the new regime. A record 272 decisions were made in October, bringing total determinations since August to 578, aided by the newly established Innovation Unit, which reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. Remediation-related cases rose slightly from 262 to 283, showing attention to existing building backlogs as new-build approvals increase. The report highlights BSR’s efforts to streamline processes through batching workflows and capacity-building measures while noting that a significant number of applications are still invalidated or withdrawn, demonstrating ongoing challenges in managing demand and clearing legacy cases.		Between August and November 2025, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) received new applications for 16,313 residential units and issued approvals for 11,138 units, with 36,023 units still in live cases, reflecting increasing throughput under the new regime. A record 272 decisions were made in October, bringing total determinations since August to 578, aided by the newly established Innovation Unit, which reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. Remediation-related cases rose slightly from 262 to 283, showing attention to existing building backlogs as new-build approvals increase. The report highlights BSR’s efforts to streamline processes through batching workflows and capacity-building measures while noting that a significant number of applications are still invalidated or withdrawn, demonstrating ongoing challenges in managing demand and clearing legacy cases.

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-august-to-november-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-august-to-november-2025]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-august-to-november-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-august-to-november-2025]
		+
		+	[[File:Remembering Grenfell cover lnscpe 1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Grenfell_Tower_memorial_design_team_appointed]]

	=== Grenfell Tower memorial design team appointed ===		=== Grenfell Tower memorial design team appointed ===
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	[https://www.keatingchambers.com/resources/articles-and-publications/keating-chambers-bsa-symposium-2025 https://www.keatingchambers.com/resources/articles-and-publications/keating-chambers-bsa-symposium-2025]		[https://www.keatingchambers.com/resources/articles-and-publications/keating-chambers-bsa-symposium-2025 https://www.keatingchambers.com/resources/articles-and-publications/keating-chambers-bsa-symposium-2025]
		+
		+	[[File:BSR logos mix history 1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Building_Safety_Regulator_new_body_and_transfer_of_functions]]

	=== The Building Safety Regulator new body and transfer of functions. 11 November ===		=== The Building Safety Regulator new body and transfer of functions. 11 November ===
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	[https://www.housing.org.uk/resources/remediating-buildings-through-the-cladding-safety-scheme-webinar-recorded-11-november-2025/ https://www.housing.org.uk/resources/remediating-buildings-through-the-cladding-safety-scheme-webinar-recorded-11-november-2025/]		[https://www.housing.org.uk/resources/remediating-buildings-through-the-cladding-safety-scheme-webinar-recorded-11-november-2025/ https://www.housing.org.uk/resources/remediating-buildings-through-the-cladding-safety-scheme-webinar-recorded-11-november-2025/]
		+
		+	[[File:CPR CE UKCA banner 1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Construction_Products_Regulation_amendments_GB_in_context]]

	=== Construction Products Regulation amendments GB in context. 10 November ===		=== Construction Products Regulation amendments GB in context. 10 November ===
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	=== BSA compliance: golden thread and the regulator Webinar: 6 November 2025 ===		=== BSA compliance: golden thread and the regulator Webinar: 6 November 2025 ===

−	This webinar examines how the Building Safety Act (BSA) has reshaped information management across the built environment and offers practical guidance on creating and maintaining a compliant Golden Thread of building information. Expert speakers will outline the Building Safety Regulator’s expectations, discuss how to structure and sustain accurate digital records throughout a project’s lifecycle, and explore the technologies that enhance accountability, traceability, and transparency, drawing on lessons ~~learned~~ from early adopters of BSA-compliant information management. Watch on demand via form.	+	This webinar examines how the Building Safety Act (BSA) has reshaped information management across the built environment and offers practical guidance on creating and maintaining a compliant Golden Thread of building information. Expert speakers will outline the Building Safety Regulator’s expectations, discuss how to structure and sustain accurate digital records throughout a project’s lifecycle, and explore the technologies that enhance accountability, traceability, and transparency, drawing on lessons learnt from early adopters of BSA-compliant information management. Watch on demand via form.

	[https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070 https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070]		[https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070 https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070]

−	=== BESA Guidance Framework for Principal Contractor Competence. ===	+	=== BESA Guidance Framework for Principal Contractor Competence. 6 November. ===

	The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has released widely welcomed guidance providing a standardised framework for assessing the competence of principal contractors (PCs) under the Building Safety Act, addressing industry confusion and reducing repetitive pre-qualification requirements. The framework aligns with PAS 8672, BSI, and ISO standards, helping organisations and individuals demonstrate their Skills, Knowledge, Experience, and Behaviours (SKEB) across six core areas, while offering practical examples of acceptable evidence. It streamlines appointment processes for clients, reassures regulators and insurers, and allows PCs to identify skills gaps, strengthen compliance, and improve professional credibility through a consistent, transparent method.		The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has released widely welcomed guidance providing a standardised framework for assessing the competence of principal contractors (PCs) under the Building Safety Act, addressing industry confusion and reducing repetitive pre-qualification requirements. The framework aligns with PAS 8672, BSI, and ISO standards, helping organisations and individuals demonstrate their Skills, Knowledge, Experience, and Behaviours (SKEB) across six core areas, while offering practical examples of acceptable evidence. It streamlines appointment processes for clients, reassures regulators and insurers, and allows PCs to identify skills gaps, strengthen compliance, and improve professional credibility through a consistent, transparent method.
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	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information]		[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information]

−	[[Category:~~Articles_needing_more_work~~]]	+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =
		+
		+	* Building Safety recap October, 2025
		+	* Building Safety recap September, 2025
		+	* Building Safety recap August, 2025
		+	* Building Safety recap July, 2025
		+	* Building Safety wiki.
		+
		+	[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Dataset]] [[Category:DCN_Education_and_Training]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:DCN_Policy]] [[Category:DCN_Project_Knowledge]] [[Category:DCN_Standard]] [[Category:Education]] [[Category:International]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Projects_and_case_studies]] [[Category:Publications_/_reports]] [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Procurement]] [[Category:Products_/_components]] [[Category:Public_procedures]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]] [[Category:Building_safety]]

Editor at 22:04, 9 December 2025

2025-12-09T22:04:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:04, 9 December 2025
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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/assent-building-compliance-ltd-and-associated-companies-winding-up-orders-made https://www.gov.uk/government/news/assent-building-compliance-ltd-and-associated-companies-winding-up-orders-made]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/assent-building-compliance-ltd-and-associated-companies-winding-up-orders-made https://www.gov.uk/government/news/assent-building-compliance-ltd-and-associated-companies-winding-up-orders-made]

−	Building Safety Regulator says 10 high-rise schemes caught up in building control firm’s collapse. 6 November	+	=== Building Safety Regulator says 10 high-rise schemes caught up in building control firm’s collapse. 6 November ===

	[https://www.housingtoday.co.uk/news/building-safety-regulator-says-10-high-rise-schemes-caught-up-in-building-control-firms-collapse/5139120.article https://www.housingtoday.co.uk/news/building-safety-regulator-says-10-high-rise-schemes-caught-up-in-building-control-firms-collapse/5139120.article]		[https://www.housingtoday.co.uk/news/building-safety-regulator-says-10-high-rise-schemes-caught-up-in-building-control-firms-collapse/5139120.article https://www.housingtoday.co.uk/news/building-safety-regulator-says-10-high-rise-schemes-caught-up-in-building-control-firms-collapse/5139120.article]

	[https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/buildings/building-safety/assent-collapse-fallout-set-to-hit-thousands-of-projects-04-11-2025/ https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/buildings/building-safety/assent-collapse-fallout-set-to-hit-thousands-of-projects-04-11-2025/]		[https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/buildings/building-safety/assent-collapse-fallout-set-to-hit-thousands-of-projects-04-11-2025/ https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/buildings/building-safety/assent-collapse-fallout-set-to-hit-thousands-of-projects-04-11-2025/]
		+
		+	=== BSA compliance: golden thread and the regulator Webinar: 6 November 2025 ===
		+
		+	This webinar examines how the Building Safety Act (BSA) has reshaped information management across the built environment and offers practical guidance on creating and maintaining a compliant Golden Thread of building information. Expert speakers will outline the Building Safety Regulator’s expectations, discuss how to structure and sustain accurate digital records throughout a project’s lifecycle, and explore the technologies that enhance accountability, traceability, and transparency, drawing on lessons learned from early adopters of BSA-compliant information management. Watch on demand via form.
		+
		+	[https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070 https://www.workcast.com/register?cpak=3344223764682070]

	=== BESA Guidance Framework for Principal Contractor Competence. ===		=== BESA Guidance Framework for Principal Contractor Competence. ===

Editor at 21:54, 9 December 2025

2025-12-09T21:54:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:54, 9 December 2025
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	[[File:Building_Safety_Wiki_Recap_Nov_25_1000.jpg\|link=File:Building_Safety_Wiki_Recap_Nov_25_1000.jpg]]		[[File:Building_Safety_Wiki_Recap_Nov_25_1000.jpg\|link=File:Building_Safety_Wiki_Recap_Nov_25_1000.jpg]]

−	= ~~What we missed in October~~ =	+	= In brief =

−	== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ==	+	== Missed in October ==
		+
		+	=== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ===

	[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]		[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]

−	== Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ==	+	=== Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ===

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]

−	== Edge Debate 187: Why the UK needs a National Built Environment Research Organisation ==	+	=== Edge Debate 187: Why the UK needs a National Built Environment Research Organisation ===

	The Edge Debate 187, held on October 7, 2025, explored the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation (NBERO) to strengthen the UK’s construction and property sectors through coordinated knowledge creation, validation, and dissemination. With built environment activities contributing over 20% of GDP but receiving only 0.8% of public university research funding, speakers, including Dame Judith Hackitt, industry representatives, and academics argued that an independent Public Sector Research Establishment could provide evidence-based guidance for practice, policymaking, and regulation, benefiting civil society, industry stakeholders, supply chains, and government. The event was chaired by Andy von Bradsky and welcomed by Peter Bonfield.		The Edge Debate 187, held on October 7, 2025, explored the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation (NBERO) to strengthen the UK’s construction and property sectors through coordinated knowledge creation, validation, and dissemination. With built environment activities contributing over 20% of GDP but receiving only 0.8% of public university research funding, speakers, including Dame Judith Hackitt, industry representatives, and academics argued that an independent Public Sector Research Establishment could provide evidence-based guidance for practice, policymaking, and regulation, benefiting civil society, industry stakeholders, supply chains, and government. The event was chaired by Andy von Bradsky and welcomed by Peter Bonfield.
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	[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]		[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]

−	= November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details b]rief =	+	== November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details b]rief ==

	In November 2025, the UK building safety and construction sectors saw regulatory and operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted between August and November, while 36,023 units remain live. The Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.		In November 2025, the UK building safety and construction sectors saw regulatory and operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted between August and November, while 36,023 units remain live. The Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.
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	Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.		Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.

−	= November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] =	+	= In detail =
		+
		+	== November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] ==

	=== Wing Article ===		=== Wing Article ===
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	=== CIOB backs Code for Construction Product Information. 1 November ===		=== CIOB backs Code for Construction Product Information. 1 November ===
		+
		+	The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) committed to supporting the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), developed by the Construction Products Association to address shortcomings in product labelling and marketing highlighted by the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. The Code aims to make construction product information clear, accurate, accessible, up-to-date, and unambiguous, helping restore trust and improve safety standards across the sector. CIOB’s endorsement complements its August 2025 Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction and strengthens the growing CCPI community, which now includes over 100 organisations and product sets carrying the CCPI Mark, representing a significant step toward consistent, transparent, and reliable product information in UK construction.
		+
		+	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/CIOB_backs_Code_for_Construction_Product_Information]

	[[Category:Articles_needing_more_work]]		[[Category:Articles_needing_more_work]]

Editor at 21:50, 9 December 2025

2025-12-09T21:50:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:50, 9 December 2025
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−	= ~~Missed~~ in October ? =	+	= What we missed in October =

	== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ==		== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ==
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	[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]		[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]
		+
		+	= November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details b]rief =
		+
		+	In November 2025, the UK building safety and construction sectors saw regulatory and operational developments. BSR reported record Gateway 2 determinations, approving 11,138 residential units out of 16,313 submitted between August and November, while 36,023 units remain live. The Innovation Unit reduced median rejection times from 32 to 11 weeks, though many “approval with requirements” cases remain pending. High-risk building projects affected by the collapse of RBCA firms Assent, LB, and Oculus reverted to the BSR, while non-higher-risk projects reverted to local authorities unless a new RBCA was appointed within seven days. In parallel, the government laid the draft 2026 regulations establishing the BSR as an independent body, transferring responsibilities from the HSE and strengthening governance, accountability, and operational focus, aligned with recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2.
		+
		+	Alongside regulatory developments, industry guidance, funding, and memorial initiatives progressed. The BESA Guidance Framework standardised assessment of principal contractor competence under PAS 8672, providing clear evidence requirements and reducing repetitive pre-qualification burdens. CIOB published a Technical Information Sheet on Pre-Construction Services Agreements, offering practical insights for legal and project management considerations. Funding initiatives included the Cladding Safety Scheme for social housing remediation. Scholarship projects continue to honour Grenfell Tower victims, Freehaus selected to lead the community-engaged memorial design. Meanwhile, the UK aligned construction product regulations with the EU’s new CPR 2024/3110, maintaining the UKCA markbut recognising the EU mark.. Other sector developments included fire door standard transitions, building control consultations, and industry events such as London Build Expo and the Keating Chambers BSA symposium, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance safety, competence, and regulatory clarity.

	= November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] =		= November in [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details detail] =

Editor at 21:43, 9 December 2025

2025-12-09T21:43:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:43, 9 December 2025
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	= Missed in October ? =		= Missed in October ? =

−	Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October	+	== Piloted operational changes accelerate Gateway 2 sign-offs. 22 October ==

	[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]		[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/3f77d9f]

−	Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October	+	== Building Safety Regulator building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ==

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/building-safety-regulator-building-control-approval-application-data-october-2025]

−	Ways to improve Gateway 2 submissions to the Building Safety Regulator (September 2025)	+	== Edge Debate 187: Why the UK needs a National Built Environment Research Organisation ==
		+
		+	The Edge Debate 187, held on October 7, 2025, explored the need for a National Built Environment Research Organisation (NBERO) to strengthen the UK’s construction and property sectors through coordinated knowledge creation, validation, and dissemination. With built environment activities contributing over 20% of GDP but receiving only 0.8% of public university research funding, speakers, including Dame Judith Hackitt, industry representatives, and academics argued that an independent Public Sector Research Establishment could provide evidence-based guidance for practice, policymaking, and regulation, benefiting civil society, industry stakeholders, supply chains, and government. The event was chaired by Andy von Bradsky and welcomed by Peter Bonfield.
		+
		+	[https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000 https://edgedebate.com/edge-events/edge-debate-187-why-the-uk-needs-a-national-built-environment-research-organisation-7th-october-2025-1800-2000]
		+
		+	=== Ways to improve Gateway 2 submissions to the Building Safety Regulator (September 2025) ===

	[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]		[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsA4Kwu_hkU]

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:31, 11 December 2025
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	= In detail =		= In detail =

−	== November in ~~[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Details~~ detail] ==	+	== November in detail ==

−	~~===~~ [[File:2025_Tai_Po_apartment_fire_CC_commons_1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]] ~~===~~	+	[[File:2025_Tai_Po_apartment_fire_CC_commons_1000.jpg\|link=https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025]]

	=== [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025]. 26 November, 2025 ===		=== [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wang_Fuk_Court_fire_of_2025 Wang Fuk Court fire of 2025]. 26 November, 2025 ===
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	* Gateway 2 determinations continue to rise, with a record 272 decisions across all application types to 24 November – totalling 578 since August 2025.		* Gateway 2 determinations continue to rise, with a record 272 decisions across all application types to 24 November – totalling 578 since August 2025.
	* The determinations demonstrate an approval rate of 73% with many of these utilising the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.		* The determinations demonstrate an approval rate of 73% with many of these utilising the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.
−	* 76% of all decisions ~~(206)~~ across all Gateway 2 categories related to London cases – with 409 made in the capital since 31 August. 85% of these in London utilised the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.	+	* 76% of all decisions across all Gateway 2 categories related to London cases – with 409 made in the capital since 31 August. 85% of these in London utilised the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.
−	* ~~The recently~~ established Innovation Unit (IU) is now managing 73 new build applications representing 17,076 units.	+	* Recently established Innovation Unit (IU) is now managing 73 new build applications representing 17,076 units.
	* 40 of the remaining 103 historic new build applications submitted under the previous model were resolved by 24 November – with 20 of these decisions relating to London cases.		* 40 of the remaining 103 historic new build applications submitted under the previous model were resolved by 24 November – with 20 of these decisions relating to London cases.
	* A minimum of 9 further previous model applications have also been assessed as ready for the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.		* A minimum of 9 further previous model applications have also been assessed as ready for the recently enhanced ‘approval with requirements’ route.
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	=== Open consultation: Building control: charges, notices and certificates. 14 November, 2025. ===		=== Open consultation: Building control: charges, notices and certificates. 14 November, 2025. ===

−	This public consultation sets out proposals and questions on building control service charges by local authorities, aiming to allow full cost recovery for certain functions under the Building Act 1984 and Building Regulations 2010. It also includes a proposal to amend the 2024 Regulations for Registered Building Control Approvers in England, extending the number of working days local authorities have to respond to notices and certificates before they are deemed approved, and seeks alignment in charging for work related to disabled access in public buildings. Proposed reforms to the: [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/404/contents Building (Local Authority Charges) Regulations 2010], [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/965/contents/made Building Safety (Regulator’s Charges) Regulations 2023] and [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2024/110/contents Building (Registered Building Control Approvers etc.) (England) Regulations 2024]	+	This public consultation sets out proposals and questions on building control service charges by local authorities, aiming to allow full cost recovery for certain functions under the Building Act 1984 and Building Regulations 2010. It also includes a proposal to amend the 2024 Regulations for Registered Building Control Approvers in England, extending the number of working days local authorities have to respond to notices and certificates before they are deemed approved, and seeks alignment in charging for work related to disabled access in public buildings. Proposed reforms to the: [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/404/contents Building (Local Authority Charges) Regulations 2010], [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/965/contents/made Building Safety (Regulator’s Charges) Regulations 2023] and [https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2024/110/contents Building (Registered Building Control Approvers etc.) (England) Regulations 2024].

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates/building-control-charges-notices-and-certificates]