The government has launched a consultation on its plans to improve building safety in the wake of Dame Judith Hackitt’s review of regulations and fire safety last year.
The consultation, which closes on 31 July, covers five broad areas, including the remit of the new regime and the idea of dutyholders who have clear responsibilities during a building’s design, construction and occupation. It moots the introduction of five dutyholder roles for buildings.
It also proposes plans for a new building safety regulator, to give residents a stronger voice.
The government recommends that reforms be initially applied to multi-occupied residential buildings of 18m or more – approximately six storeys.
The publication comes a week before the second anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire in west London.
Housing minister James Brokenshire said: “This consultation seeks views on our proposals for a radically new building and fire safety system which puts residents’ safety at its heart.
“Dutyholders will be required to demonstrate a building’s safety through a new system of gateway points during design and construction, and through a safety case regime during its occupation.”
To send feedback, e-mail anna.ward@egi.co.uk or tweet @annaroxelana or @estatesgazette
