A thematic update on the implementation of Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

In the sixth thematic update on the progress made towards implementing recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report, the UK Government has detailed the latest strides in the pursuit of justice for the Grenfell community. This information, as found on the official government website, brings much-needed transparency to this crucial area of work.

Steady progress in addressing Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

The report shows an increase in the rate of completion by Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) of their action plans to address the Inquiry recommendations, from 81 to 91%. Despite this positive shift, the recommendations will not be considered complete until all FRSs have fulfilled their respective obligations.

Government’s broader commitment towards safety reforms post-Grenfell

The government’s commitment to safety extends beyond the tracker’s updates. By the end of May 2023, 96% (468) of all identified high-rise residential and publicly-owned buildings in England had either completed or initiated work to remove or replace unsafe Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding. Through the Building Safety Act, the government has introduced reforms to provide residents and homeowners with more rights, powers and protections. Since April, over 1000 high-rise residential buildings in England have started the registration process with the newly opened Building Safety Regulator.

Implementation status of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

From the Inquiry’s 46 recommendations, 31 have now been completed. According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) survey, the average rate of completion of all nine recommendations by each of the 43 services is 91%, and 20 FRSs have completed their action plans in full. At the time of writing, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has completed 26 of the 29 recommendations directed specifically at them.

Government’s additional safety measures

The Government has also introduced several additional safety measures, including updates to the Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans consultation and the commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021. Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 have also been enforced, placing more requirements on responsible persons for multi-occupied residential buildings to ensure the safety of residents.

National progress and new safety standards

The NFCC has produced the first suite of National Fire Control guidance due to funding from the Home Office after the Grenfell Tower fire. There have also been improvements in methods of transferring information between control rooms, with the Multi Agency Information Transfer (MAIT) system. The Fire Standards Board has also recently published new Fire Standards on Fire Control and Communications and Engagement.

Progress of the London Fire Brigade

The London Fire Brigade has completed 26 of the 29 recommendations directed specifically at them, with three remaining in progress.

About Grenfell Tower Inquiry

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry is a public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire, which took place on 14 June 2017 at the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, West London. The disaster claimed 72 lives and is one of the deadliest domestic fires in the UK since World War II.

IFSJ Comment

This update indicates the continued commitment and progress towards implementing the vital recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Ensuring these measures are in place is crucial to preventing such tragedies from reoccurring and to reassure the public that their safety is a priority. The transparency and regular updates provided by the government should offer a measure of accountability and demonstrate the steady advancements made in this significant area of work.

It is our hope that these improvements, paired with an increased public understanding and awareness of fire safety issues, can ensure a safer future for all residents of high-rise buildings.