Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor

On 25 February 2026, the interim Chief Construction Adviser (CCA), Thouria Istephan who was appointed on 30 September 2025, in a role "to provide independent challenge, scrutiny and advice to the government on building safety and regulatory reform", made a statement of priorities for the term and next steps. Also on 25 Febrruary the government published its Annual Report on the Government’s Progress to Implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations stating that it plans to appoint a Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser (CCSA) by the end of 2026. The full Statement from the interim Chief Construction Adviser can be found via this link, below is a precis of her statement.

The role of interim Chief Construction Adviser was recommended by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, on which Thouria Istephan served as a panel member, she notes recognition of the responsibility it carries, following the tragedy that claimed 72 lives. A tragedy that was found to be the culmination of decades of failure across government and the construction sector. In the years since, thousands of buildings have been identified with unsafe cladding and related safety defects requiring remediation, underscoring the need for sustained reform.

Ms Istephan sees her independent role, distinct from industry representation, as being to provide clear, evidence-based advice to government on building safety and regulatory change, while drawing on a wide range of perspectives. Improving safety practices is not only an ethical duty to those who live and work in buildings, but also an opportunity for the industry to demonstrate competence and consistent quality. The priorities for her term have been agreed with the Building Safety Minister and will be reported on more fully at its conclusion and to ensure effective handover to her successor.

In setting my priorities, she has been guided by the evidence of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and the wider failures subsequently identified across the housing stock, including unsafe cladding and systemic safety defects in thousands of buildings. The scale and seriousness of those failings, and the Inquiry’s recommendations, directly inform her advice to government and commitment to supporting meaningful, systemic reform where required. The profound losses suffered by the bereaved, survivors and the wider Grenfell community must not be forgotten, nor the many people who still live and work in unsafe buildings. We owe it to them to create a system that learns the lessons of Grenfell, remediates unsafe homes, and delivers lasting improvements in the safety and quality of both new and existing buildings, always placing occupants and users at the heart of our decisions and ensuring the environments in which they live and work are safe.

"Reflecting on this evidence, my engagement with a range of stakeholders in this role and my practical experience as an architect, the following are priorities for my term:

reform of regulation for construction products
standards for the construction of buildings and professionals involved in construction
how evidence is gathered and learning from near misses
supporting the development of the permanent CCSA role

I have decided to focus on these areas as they represent foundations of the built environment where I believe I can have the greatest impact. Ensuring we address issues existing in current buildings and that new buildings are built to consistently high standards relies on effective regulation and enforcement as well as culture and behaviours within the construction industry. I will play my role to support progress."

Ms Istephan has engaged extensively across government and industry, including with the MHCLG, BSR, CLC, Build UK, and figures such as Dame Judith Hackitt and Paul Morrell to inform her independent advice on building safety and regulatory reform.

For the remainder of her term focus will be on progressing the priorities set and providing independent, evidence-based advice to inform and shape government policy on building safety and regulatory reform. She also intends to broaden and deepen engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, including resident groups such as the BSR Residents’ Panel, and to participate in public events and debates related to building safety, construction standards, and regulatory improvement. Engagement to gather diverse perspectives, strengthen the quality of advice, and constructively challenge areas where further progress is needed.

At the end of my term in September 2026, she plans to publish a report summarising the work undertaken, the insights gathered, and the recommendations made, with the aim of providing a clear foundation for the incoming Chief Construction Adviser. "It is a privilege to play my part to drive improvements in building safety and regulatory reform. Whilst my time is limited, I am committed to preparing the foundations for an incoming CCSA and use this opportunity to champion proportionate and progressive approaches and initiatives." She says in closing.