Delays to building new high-rise homes will be unblocked through a new package of reforms to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). These reforms, which include a new Fast Track Process, changes to leadership and fresh investment, aim to support the delivery of 1.5 million safe, high-quality homes and take early steps toward establishing a single construction regulator – a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Robert Bruce, a Partner at Freeths LLP, commented that:

“After the terrible Grenfell incident, there has rightly been an increased focus and new regulatory regime for building safety of tall buildings to protect residents and the wider public. However, it is apparent that this has been matched with resourcing and the capability of the new Building Safety Regulator to check and sign off on the safety of tall buildings within a reasonable timescale. With the housing crisis in the UK continually deepening, impacting the hopes and aspirations of young people and a root cause of significant social problems, reform of the regulatory regime is very welcome and essential if there is to be any chance of the Government coming close to its target of building 1.5m homes this Parliament.”