Building Safety recap October, 2025 - Revision history

Editor at 11:10, 7 November 2025

2025-11-07T11:10:28Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:10, 7 November 2025
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	[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]		[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]

−	== Accelerated decision making powers and funds to ramp up housebuilding in London ==	+	== Accelerated decision making powers and funds to ramp up housebuilding in London. 23 Oct ==

	The Housing Secretary and Mayor of London announced emergency measures to tackle the capital’s housebuilding crisis, building on BSR and MHCLG efforts to streamline high-rise building approvals. The Mayor will gain powers to fast-track developments, review or call-in schemes of 50+ homes, and approve 1,000 sqm+ green belt projects, while Mayoral Development Orders will bypass local vetoes. A £322 million City Hall Developer Investment Fund, alongside £11.7 billion from the Social and Affordable Homes Programme and low-cost loans via the National Housing Bank, will boost housing delivery, targeting 1.5 million new homes. Measures include fast-tracked planning for schemes with at least 20 % affordable housing, temporary relief from development levies and the Community Infrastructure Levy, relaxed design and cycle storage rules, and greater flexibility on density and basements. Housing Secretary Steve Reed and Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasised that these interventions aim to unlock stalled developments, accelerate construction of affordable homes, and address the severe financial and supply pressures currently affecting London housebuilding, while BSR Chair Andy Roe noted the regulator’s reforms are already improving high-rise approvals without compromising safety.		The Housing Secretary and Mayor of London announced emergency measures to tackle the capital’s housebuilding crisis, building on BSR and MHCLG efforts to streamline high-rise building approvals. The Mayor will gain powers to fast-track developments, review or call-in schemes of 50+ homes, and approve 1,000 sqm+ green belt projects, while Mayoral Development Orders will bypass local vetoes. A £322 million City Hall Developer Investment Fund, alongside £11.7 billion from the Social and Affordable Homes Programme and low-cost loans via the National Housing Bank, will boost housing delivery, targeting 1.5 million new homes. Measures include fast-tracked planning for schemes with at least 20 % affordable housing, temporary relief from development levies and the Community Infrastructure Levy, relaxed design and cycle storage rules, and greater flexibility on density and basements. Housing Secretary Steve Reed and Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasised that these interventions aim to unlock stalled developments, accelerate construction of affordable homes, and address the severe financial and supply pressures currently affecting London housebuilding, while BSR Chair Andy Roe noted the regulator’s reforms are already improving high-rise approvals without compromising safety.
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	The House of Commons debated the performance of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), highlighting delays in approvals for new builds and remediation, with around 33,000 homes awaiting approval and many applications taking 25–40 weeks versus the 12-week target. MPs and industry representatives called for greater efficiency, transparency, and pre-application support, while the Minister confirmed reforms including an Innovation Unit managing 27 applications (6,192 homes) on schedule, and acknowledged ongoing workforce shortages in fire engineering and inspection. The debate underscored tensions between ensuring safety and avoiding bottlenecks in housing delivery.		The House of Commons debated the performance of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), highlighting delays in approvals for new builds and remediation, with around 33,000 homes awaiting approval and many applications taking 25–40 weeks versus the 12-week target. MPs and industry representatives called for greater efficiency, transparency, and pre-application support, while the Minister confirmed reforms including an Innovation Unit managing 27 applications (6,192 homes) on schedule, and acknowledged ongoing workforce shortages in fire engineering and inspection. The debate underscored tensions between ensuring safety and avoiding bottlenecks in housing delivery.

−	[https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-4A77-8AE2-D2AF08D1DC11/BuildingSafetyRegulator https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-~~4A77~~-~~8AE2~~-~~D2AF08D1DC11~~/~~BuildingSafetyRegulator~~]	+	[https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-4A77-8AE2-D2AF08D1DC11/BuildingSafetyRegulator https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-4A778AE2D2AF08D1DC11/BuildingSafetyRegulator]
		+
		+	== CIAT's Principal Designer Registers now have over 30 registrants. 22 October ==
		+
		+	CIAT launched the Principal Designer Register to help Chartered Architectural Technologists demonstrate the skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours required to fulfil the Principal Designer (PD) role under the Building Regulations for both HRBs and non-HRBs. The PD is responsible for ensuring that the building’s overall design complies with regulations, even when other designers contribute. CIAT encourages all Chartered Members undertaking PD responsibilities to register, as successful registration for HRBs automatically includes listing for non-HRBs. Those who were previously unsuccessful are welcome to resubmit at any time and are advised to consult the [https://architecturaltechnology.com/resources/building-safety/new/principal-designer.html Building Safety Hub] for resources, exemplars, and guidance.
		+
		+	[https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/ciat-principal-designer-registers-now-have-over-30-registrants.html https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/ciat-principal-designer-registers-now-have-over-30-registrants.html]

	== Government implementation timeline for Inquiry recommendations updated. 17 October ==		== Government implementation timeline for Inquiry recommendations updated. 17 October ==

Editor at 16:10, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T16:10:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:10, 4 November 2025
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	= In brief =		= In brief =

−	= September in brief =	+	== September in brief ==

	Significant developments in building safety and construction included the appointment of Thouria Istephan as interim Chief Construction Adviser and Paul Brown as chair of Build UK, coinciding with plans for £725 billion in infrastructure investment. Key fire safety initiatives included the LABC Fire Engineering Principlestraining, Fire Door Safety Week, and the CIOB awarding Kabbe Njie for work on cultural safety. The Regulator of Social Housing reported 1,926 life-critical defects in high-rise social housing, while the Building Safety Fund closed to new applications, with future remediation routed through the Cladding Safety Scheme. Parliament and committees continued scrutinising the Building Safety Regulator, focusing on remediation pace, guidance, staffing, and Grenfell Inquiry recommendations, as Barratt Redrow revealed over £1 billion in legacy safety costs.		Significant developments in building safety and construction included the appointment of Thouria Istephan as interim Chief Construction Adviser and Paul Brown as chair of Build UK, coinciding with plans for £725 billion in infrastructure investment. Key fire safety initiatives included the LABC Fire Engineering Principlestraining, Fire Door Safety Week, and the CIOB awarding Kabbe Njie for work on cultural safety. The Regulator of Social Housing reported 1,926 life-critical defects in high-rise social housing, while the Building Safety Fund closed to new applications, with future remediation routed through the Cladding Safety Scheme. Parliament and committees continued scrutinising the Building Safety Regulator, focusing on remediation pace, guidance, staffing, and Grenfell Inquiry recommendations, as Barratt Redrow revealed over £1 billion in legacy safety costs.

−	= October in brief =	+	== October in brief ==

	Key developments over the past month have included continued and concluding scrutiny from of BSR by parliament and the Industry and Regulators Committee over delays in new build and remediation approvals, with 33,000 homes awaiting decisions, though reforms including the Innovation Unit aiming to streamline processes. Though BSR reported record Gateway 2 applications, supported by its Innovation Unit, while social housing competence standards advanced. Gateway 2 approval was granted to the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing. In London building on BSR and MHCLG improved performance Housing Secretary and the Mayor of London announced fast-tracked planning, new powers and emergency measures to increase housebuilding in the capitol with a £322 million investment fund, and regulatory relief to accelerate housebuilding and deliver affordable homes in line with government targets.		Key developments over the past month have included continued and concluding scrutiny from of BSR by parliament and the Industry and Regulators Committee over delays in new build and remediation approvals, with 33,000 homes awaiting decisions, though reforms including the Innovation Unit aiming to streamline processes. Though BSR reported record Gateway 2 applications, supported by its Innovation Unit, while social housing competence standards advanced. Gateway 2 approval was granted to the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing. In London building on BSR and MHCLG improved performance Housing Secretary and the Mayor of London announced fast-tracked planning, new powers and emergency measures to increase housebuilding in the capitol with a £322 million investment fund, and regulatory relief to accelerate housebuilding and deliver affordable homes in line with government targets.

Editor at 14:00, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T14:00:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:00, 4 November 2025
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	= October in brief =		= October in brief =

−	Key developments over the past month have included continued and concluding scrutiny from of BSR by parliament and the Industry and Regulators Committee over delays in new build and remediation approvals, with 33,000 homes awaiting decisions, though reforms including the Innovation Unit aiming to streamline processes. Though BSR reported record Gateway 2 applications, supported by its Innovation Unit, while social housing competence standards advanced. Gateway 2 approval was granted to the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing.	+	Key developments over the past month have included continued and concluding scrutiny from of BSR by parliament and the Industry and Regulators Committee over delays in new build and remediation approvals, with 33,000 homes awaiting decisions, though reforms including the Innovation Unit aiming to streamline processes. Though BSR reported record Gateway 2 applications, supported by its Innovation Unit, while social housing competence standards advanced. Gateway 2 approval was granted to the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing. In London building on BSR and MHCLG improved performance Housing Secretary and the Mayor of London announced fast-tracked planning, new powers and emergency measures to increase housebuilding in the capitol with a £322 million investment fund, and regulatory relief to accelerate housebuilding and deliver affordable homes in line with government targets.

	NFCC published its Remediation Position Statement, warning that enforcement alone cannot fix systemic building safety flaws and calling for a centrally coordinated, risk-based remediation programme, workforce development, and regulatory reform. Whilst Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme progressed with over 1,000 expressions of interest and £14.2 million spent and Birmingham City Council secured a landmark £50,000 fire safety prosecution for non-compliance with an Improvement Notice. MHCLG issued guidance to accelerate developer-led remediation.		NFCC published its Remediation Position Statement, warning that enforcement alone cannot fix systemic building safety flaws and calling for a centrally coordinated, risk-based remediation programme, workforce development, and regulatory reform. Whilst Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme progressed with over 1,000 expressions of interest and £14.2 million spent and Birmingham City Council secured a landmark £50,000 fire safety prosecution for non-compliance with an Improvement Notice. MHCLG issued guidance to accelerate developer-led remediation.
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	[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]		[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]
		+
		+	== Accelerated decision making powers and funds to ramp up housebuilding in London ==
		+
		+	The Housing Secretary and Mayor of London announced emergency measures to tackle the capital’s housebuilding crisis, building on BSR and MHCLG efforts to streamline high-rise building approvals. The Mayor will gain powers to fast-track developments, review or call-in schemes of 50+ homes, and approve 1,000 sqm+ green belt projects, while Mayoral Development Orders will bypass local vetoes. A £322 million City Hall Developer Investment Fund, alongside £11.7 billion from the Social and Affordable Homes Programme and low-cost loans via the National Housing Bank, will boost housing delivery, targeting 1.5 million new homes. Measures include fast-tracked planning for schemes with at least 20 % affordable housing, temporary relief from development levies and the Community Infrastructure Levy, relaxed design and cycle storage rules, and greater flexibility on density and basements. Housing Secretary Steve Reed and Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasised that these interventions aim to unlock stalled developments, accelerate construction of affordable homes, and address the severe financial and supply pressures currently affecting London housebuilding, while BSR Chair Andy Roe noted the regulator’s reforms are already improving high-rise approvals without compromising safety.
		+
		+	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Accelerated_decision_making_powers_and_funds_to_ramp_up_housebuilding_in_London https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Accelerated_decision_making_powers_and_funds_to_ramp_up_housebuilding_in_London]

	== Westminster Hall debate on the performance of the BSR (Volume 773). 23 October ==		== Westminster Hall debate on the performance of the BSR (Volume 773). 23 October ==
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	* Building Safety wiki		* Building Safety wiki

−	[[Category:~~Articles_needing_more_work~~]]	+	[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:DCN_Project_Knowledge]] [[Category:DCN_Specification]] [[Category:DCN_Standard]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Publications_/_reports]] [[Category:Water]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Policy]] [[Category:Property_law]] [[Category:Regulations]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Taxation]]

Editor at 13:11, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T13:11:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:11, 4 November 2025
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	= In brief =		= In brief =
		+
		+	= September in brief =
		+
		+	Significant developments in building safety and construction included the appointment of Thouria Istephan as interim Chief Construction Adviser and Paul Brown as chair of Build UK, coinciding with plans for £725 billion in infrastructure investment. Key fire safety initiatives included the LABC Fire Engineering Principlestraining, Fire Door Safety Week, and the CIOB awarding Kabbe Njie for work on cultural safety. The Regulator of Social Housing reported 1,926 life-critical defects in high-rise social housing, while the Building Safety Fund closed to new applications, with future remediation routed through the Cladding Safety Scheme. Parliament and committees continued scrutinising the Building Safety Regulator, focusing on remediation pace, guidance, staffing, and Grenfell Inquiry recommendations, as Barratt Redrow revealed over £1 billion in legacy safety costs.

	= October in brief =		= October in brief =

−	~~Developments in the UK built environment and fire safety sector during~~ the month included~~: CIOB backing~~ the ~~Code for Construction Product Information to improve transparency~~ and ~~product traceability; Birmingham City Council securing a first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice,~~ and ~~a £50~~,~~000 fine; Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme advancing~~ with ~~478 grant offers and remediation of two buildings~~, the NFCC ~~publishing~~ its Remediation Position Statement, warning that enforcement alone cannot fix systemic building safety flaws and calling for a centrally coordinated, risk-based remediation programme, workforce development, and regulatory reform.	+	Key developments over the past month have included continued and concluding scrutiny from of BSR by parliament and the Industry and Regulators Committee over delays in new build and remediation approvals, with 33,000 homes awaiting decisions, though reforms including the Innovation Unit aiming to streamline processes. Though BSR reported record Gateway 2 applications, supported by its Innovation Unit, while social housing competence standards advanced. Gateway 2 approval was granted to the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing.
		+
		+	NFCC published its Remediation Position Statement, warning that enforcement alone cannot fix systemic building safety flaws and calling for a centrally coordinated, risk-based remediation programme, workforce development, and regulatory reform. Whilst Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme progressed with over 1,000 expressions of interest and £14.2 million spent and Birmingham City Council secured a landmark £50,000 fire safety prosecution for non-compliance with an Improvement Notice. MHCLG issued guidance to accelerate developer-led remediation.

−	~~Other highlights included Gateway 2 approval for the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing, MHCLG publishing guidance~~ and ~~template agreements to support developer-led remediation, the Housing Scrutiny Commission recommending demolition of Marie Curie House due to~~ fire ~~and structural risks, research advocating strengthened professionalism and governance in the built environment~~, FPA ~~announcing~~ a partnership with FDM to expand fire safety training, ~~the launch of~~ its 2025 ~~fire safety policy~~ manifesto, the RBKC ~~lifting bans on Siderise and Artelia~~ following judicial ~~reviews~~, ~~progress~~ in ~~Building Control applications with~~ the ~~BSR reporting 152 active new-build applications~~, ~~and continued development~~ of ~~Competence~~ and ~~Conduct Standards for social housing staff~~.	+	Debates on professional standards and fire safety continued, FPA announced a partnership with FDM to expand fire safety training, alongside its 2025 manifesto and the publication of the Built Environment governance. RBKC further lifted its procurement ban for a consultancy firm involved with Grenfell following a judicial review and out of court settlement, CIOB endorsed the Code for Construction Product Information to improve product transparency and trust. The Housing Scrutiny Commission recommended to Southwark Council that Marie Curie House, the sister building to Lakanal house (which was refurbished in 2017 after the tragic fire in 2009), be demolished due to rising costs, the impact of the BSA and additional fire and structural risks, that were not applicable to Lakanal house.

	= October in detail =		= October in detail =

Editor at 12:48, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T12:48:35Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:48, 4 November 2025
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	[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]		[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]
		+
		+	== Westminster Hall debate on the performance of the BSR (Volume 773). 23 October ==
		+
		+	The House of Commons debated the performance of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), highlighting delays in approvals for new builds and remediation, with around 33,000 homes awaiting approval and many applications taking 25–40 weeks versus the 12-week target. MPs and industry representatives called for greater efficiency, transparency, and pre-application support, while the Minister confirmed reforms including an Innovation Unit managing 27 applications (6,192 homes) on schedule, and acknowledged ongoing workforce shortages in fire engineering and inspection. The debate underscored tensions between ensuring safety and avoiding bottlenecks in housing delivery.
		+
		+	[https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-4A77-8AE2-D2AF08D1DC11/BuildingSafetyRegulator https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2025-10-23/debates/F8ABA87C-E2B9-4A77-8AE2-D2AF08D1DC11/BuildingSafetyRegulator]

	== Government implementation timeline for Inquiry recommendations updated. 17 October ==		== Government implementation timeline for Inquiry recommendations updated. 17 October ==
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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update]

−	Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October	+	== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October ==

	On 16 October 2025, Birmingham City Council secured the West Midlands’ first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004. Freehold Managers (Nominees) Limited, responsible for Centenary Plaza, pleaded guilty to ignoring an Improvement Notice issued in September 2023 requiring fire door repairs, upgraded emergency lighting, and improved escape routes. The company was fined £50,000 at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. This is only the second such case nationally and marks a major step in the council’s post-Grenfell efforts to enforce fire safety in high-rise buildings. Councillor Nicky Brennan said the ruling sends a clear message that Birmingham will use all available powers to hold building owners accountable and prioritise residents’ safety.		On 16 October 2025, Birmingham City Council secured the West Midlands’ first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004. Freehold Managers (Nominees) Limited, responsible for Centenary Plaza, pleaded guilty to ignoring an Improvement Notice issued in September 2023 requiring fire door repairs, upgraded emergency lighting, and improved escape routes. The company was fined £50,000 at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. This is only the second such case nationally and marks a major step in the council’s post-Grenfell efforts to enforce fire safety in high-rise buildings. Councillor Nicky Brennan said the ruling sends a clear message that Birmingham will use all available powers to hold building owners accountable and prioritise residents’ safety.

Editor at 12:35, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T12:35:19Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:35, 4 November 2025
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	[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]		[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]

−	== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October ==	+	== Government implementation timeline for Inquiry recommendations updated. 17 October ==
		+
		+	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/implementation-timeline-for-grenfell-tower-inquiry-recommendations https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/implementation-timeline-for-grenfell-tower-inquiry-recommendations]
		+
		+	== Policy paper Progress report: summary update updated. 17 October ==
		+
		+	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/grenfell-tower-inquiry-government-progress-report/progress-report-summary-update]
		+
		+	Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October

	On 16 October 2025, Birmingham City Council secured the West Midlands’ first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004. Freehold Managers (Nominees) Limited, responsible for Centenary Plaza, pleaded guilty to ignoring an Improvement Notice issued in September 2023 requiring fire door repairs, upgraded emergency lighting, and improved escape routes. The company was fined £50,000 at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. This is only the second such case nationally and marks a major step in the council’s post-Grenfell efforts to enforce fire safety in high-rise buildings. Councillor Nicky Brennan said the ruling sends a clear message that Birmingham will use all available powers to hold building owners accountable and prioritise residents’ safety.		On 16 October 2025, Birmingham City Council secured the West Midlands’ first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004. Freehold Managers (Nominees) Limited, responsible for Centenary Plaza, pleaded guilty to ignoring an Improvement Notice issued in September 2023 requiring fire door repairs, upgraded emergency lighting, and improved escape routes. The company was fined £50,000 at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. This is only the second such case nationally and marks a major step in the council’s post-Grenfell efforts to enforce fire safety in high-rise buildings. Councillor Nicky Brennan said the ruling sends a clear message that Birmingham will use all available powers to hold building owners accountable and prioritise residents’ safety.
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	[https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/position-statements/remediation/ https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/position-statements/remediation/]		[https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/position-statements/remediation/ https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/position-statements/remediation/]
		+
		+	== BSR building control approval application data October 2025. 16 October ==
		+
		+	152 active new build Gateway 2 applications nationally, covering 33,670 housing units.The newly formed Innovation Unit (IU) is managing 27 of those applications (6,192 units) and is meeting the 12‑week service level targets. Historic 'previous model' new build applications (91 cases or 21,745 units) are being targeted for resolution by 31 Dec 2025. Remediation applications under Gateway 2 are also tracked; the report highlights a need for a centralised remediation team to handle the backlog.The report lists key 'blockers' causing delays as being: limited availability of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) expertise, fire engineering capacity, structural engineers and timely information from applicants.
		+
		+	[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]

	== Gateway 2 approval for first volumetric scheme; 13-19 The Green, Ealing. 15 October ==		== Gateway 2 approval for first volumetric scheme; 13-19 The Green, Ealing. 15 October ==

Editor at 12:17, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T12:17:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:17, 4 November 2025
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	[https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/ https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/]		[https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/ https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/]
		+
		+	== IRC BSR inquiry questions Minister and leadership on performance. 28 October ==
		+
		+	The Industry and Regulators Committee is concluding its inquiry into building safety regulation by hearing from Building Safety Minister Samantha Dixon MP and the new Chair and Chief Executive of the Building Safety Regulator, which has been set up to promote the safe design and construction of higher-risk buildings. The Committee will question whether the BSR’s approvals processes have delayed the construction of new high-rise housing and the removal of cladding from existing blocks and consider the Government’s reforms to address them. The Committee will also consider the extent to which delays have been caused by the culture and capability of the construction industry, and whether the BSR has provided sufficient guidance to the industry on how to build safe high-rise buildings. The Committee will also examine how to ensure that the regulator has the skills and resources it needs to provide timely approvals, in a sector facing skills shortages.
		+
		+	[https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/ https://committees.parliament.uk/event/25273/formal-meeting-oral-evidence-session/]

	== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October ==		== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October ==

Editor at 12:08, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T12:08:03Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:08, 4 November 2025
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	= October in brief =		= October in brief =
		+
		+	Developments in the UK built environment and fire safety sector during the month included: CIOB backing the Code for Construction Product Information to improve transparency and product traceability; Birmingham City Council securing a first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice, and a £50,000 fine; Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme advancing with 478 grant offers and remediation of two buildings, the NFCC publishing its Remediation Position Statement, warning that enforcement alone cannot fix systemic building safety flaws and calling for a centrally coordinated, risk-based remediation programme, workforce development, and regulatory reform.
		+
		+	Other highlights included Gateway 2 approval for the UK’s first volumetric student accommodation scheme in Ealing, MHCLG publishing guidance and template agreements to support developer-led remediation, the Housing Scrutiny Commission recommending demolition of Marie Curie House due to fire and structural risks, research advocating strengthened professionalism and governance in the built environment, FPA announcing a partnership with FDM to expand fire safety training, the launch of its 2025 fire safety policy manifesto, the RBKC lifting bans on Siderise and Artelia following judicial reviews, progress in Building Control applications with the BSR reporting 152 active new-build applications, and continued development of Competence and Conduct Standards for social housing staff.

	= October in detail =		= October in detail =

Editor at 11:43, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T11:43:02Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:43, 4 November 2025
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	= In brief =		= In brief =

−	== October in brief ==	+	= October in brief =

−	=~~= RBKC settles judicial review claim and removes consultancy ban. 31~~ October ==	+	= October in detail =

−	~~[https://www~~.localgovernmentlawyer.co.uk/procurement-and-contracts/402-procurement-news/98907-kensington-chelsea-settles-judicial-review-claim-and-removes-projects-consultancy-from-list-of-banned-suppliers-drawn-up-after-grenfell-inquiry-reports https://www.localgovernmentlawyer.co.uk/procurement-and-contracts/402-procurement-news/98907-kensington-chelsea-settles-judicial-review-claim-and-removes-projects-consultancy-from-list-of-banned-suppliers-drawn-up-after-grenfell-inquiry-reports]	+	== CIOB backs Code for Construction Product Information. 31 October ==

−	~~== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution~~ of ~~£50~~,~~000~~. ~~28 October ==~~	+	On 31 October, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) announced its support for the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), developed by the Construction Product Association to improve transparency, accuracy, and traceability in construction product labelling and marketing. The CIOB emphasised that the code is vital for restoring trust and ensuring safety through reliable product information. The institute also highlighted its Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction, published in August 2025, which supports the CCPI and has been downloaded nearly 800 times. The CCPI, managed by CPI Ltd, now includes over 100 registered organisations and more than 100 product sets certified with its quality mark.

−	[https://www.~~birmingham~~.~~gov~~.uk/~~news~~/~~article/1660/landmark_fire_safety_prosecution_sees_birmingham_building_owner_fined_50000~~ https://www.~~birmingham~~.~~gov~~.uk/~~news/article/1660~~/~~landmark_fire_safety_prosecution_sees_birmingham_building_owner_fined_50000~~]	+	[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]

	== Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme update. 28 October ==		== Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme update. 28 October ==
Line 19:		Line 19:
	[https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/ https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/]		[https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/ https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-cladding-remediation-programme-update-q3-2025/]

−	== ~~CPA Construction Industry Forecasts - Autumn 2025~~. 27 October ==	+	== Birmingham Landmark fire safety prosecution of £50,000. 16 October ==

−	~~[https://www~~.~~constructionproducts~~.~~org~~.~~uk/publications/economics/construction~~-~~industry~~-~~forecasts/construction-industry-forecasts-autumn-2025/ https://www~~.~~constructionproducts~~.~~org.uk/publications/economics/construction-industry-forecasts/construction-industry-forecasts-autumn-2025/]~~	+	On 16 October 2025, Birmingham City Council secured the West Midlands’ first prosecution for failing to comply with a fire safety Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004. Freehold Managers (Nominees) Limited, responsible for Centenary Plaza, pleaded guilty to ignoring an Improvement Notice issued in September 2023 requiring fire door repairs, upgraded emergency lighting, and improved escape routes. The company was fined £50,000 at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. This is only the second such case nationally and marks a major step in the council’s post-Grenfell efforts to enforce fire safety in high-rise buildings. Councillor Nicky Brennan said the ruling sends a clear message that Birmingham will use all available powers to hold building owners accountable and prioritise residents’ safety.

	== National Fire Chiefs Council publish remediation position statement. 16 October ==		== National Fire Chiefs Council publish remediation position statement. 16 October ==
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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/joint-plan-to-accelerate-developer-led-remediation-and-improve-resident-experience#full-publication-update-history https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/joint-plan-to-accelerate-developer-led-remediation-and-improve-resident-experience#full-publication-update-history]		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/joint-plan-to-accelerate-developer-led-remediation-and-improve-resident-experience#full-publication-update-history https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/joint-plan-to-accelerate-developer-led-remediation-and-improve-resident-experience#full-publication-update-history]

−	= Marie Curie House recommended for demolition. 14 October =	+	== Marie Curie House recommended for demolition. 14 October ==

−	~~= The Lakanal House fire and~~ Marie Curie House; Sceaux Gardens Estate, London =	+	Marie Curie House, is part of the Sceaux Gardens Estate, London, known as the sister block of Lakanal House because it was built to the same design. Lakanal House suffered a devastating fire in on 3 July 2009 which killed six people and injured at least 20, when a blaze spread rapidly due poor compartmentalisation and flammable cladding installed during a 2007 refurbishment. An inquest in 2013 after which the block was returned to Southwark Council, blamed the council and their contractors, leading to a plea of guilty on 4 counts and a fine of £300,000. In 2020 Marie Curie House, its neighbouring block, were also found to have similar fire safety failings, which lead to the evacuation of 98 households in 2021. Although Lakanal House had since been refurbished, handed over and occupied since in March 2017, rising costs, new requirements under the 2022 Building Safety Act, and worsening structural issues of Marie Curie house, including degradation, carbonation, and gas risks lead to suggestions that refurbishment would be unviable. On 14 October 2025 in a meeting with Southwark Council, the Housing Scrutiny Commission recommended demolishing and redeveloping Marie Curie House to provide a safer, sustainable long-term solution.

	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Lakanal_House_fire_and_Marie_Curie_House;_Sceaux_Gardens_Estate,_London https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Lakanal_House_fire_and_Marie_Curie_House;_Sceaux_Gardens_Estate,_London]		[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Lakanal_House_fire_and_Marie_Curie_House;_Sceaux_Gardens_Estate,_London https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Lakanal_House_fire_and_Marie_Curie_House;_Sceaux_Gardens_Estate,_London]
Line 78:		Line 78:

	[https://www.thefpa.co.uk/contentfiles/files/FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto/2025%20FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto.pdf https://www.thefpa.co.uk/contentfiles/files/FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto/2025%20FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto.pdf]		[https://www.thefpa.co.uk/contentfiles/files/FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto/2025%20FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto.pdf https://www.thefpa.co.uk/contentfiles/files/FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto/2025%20FPA%20Policy%20Manifesto.pdf]
		+
		+	== RBKC settles judicial review claim and removes ban on consultancy firm. 31 October ==
		+
		+	The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 1 Report (2019) exposed major failings by the council, KCTMO, and contractors, prompting Kensington and Chelsea Council (RBKC) to ban firms involved, including Rydon, Celotex, Kingspan, and Arconic from future contracts. Following the Phase 2 Report in October 2024, which revealed further systemic issues and a culture of blame, RBKC extended the ban to all associated companies. However, after legal challenges, the council lifted the ban on Siderise in July 2025 and on Artelia on 2 October 2025, following judicial reviews that argued the exclusions were inconsistent with procurement law. The council’s policy remains in place for the other companies named.
		+
		+	[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Kensington_and_Chelsea_Grenfell_contractor_policy https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Kensington_and_Chelsea_Grenfell_contractor_policy]

	== Building Control Approval application data. 1 October ==		== Building Control Approval application data. 1 October ==

Editor at 10:49, 4 November 2025

2025-11-04T10:49:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:49, 4 November 2025
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		+
		+	= In brief =
		+
		+	== October in brief ==

	== RBKC settles judicial review claim and removes consultancy ban. 31 October ==		== RBKC settles judicial review claim and removes consultancy ban. 31 October ==