Grenfell expert panel to look at building regs

The new Grenfell Tower expert advisory panel on safety is to examine whether building regulations need to be changed in the wake of the blaze, which has so far claimed the lives of at least 80 people.

Appointed by the government, the panel’s remit is to provide independent advice to ministers on any immediate measures that may need to be put in place to make buildings safe for residents following the Grenfell Tower fire.

Chaired by Sir Ken Knight, former London Fire Commissioner, the panel includes Dr Peter Bonfield, chief executive of the BRE, and Amanda Clack, president of the RICS.

The panel said it realised its work needed to be done “without duplicating or prejudging the outcomes of the public inquiry and police investigation”.

Last week leading figures from Kensington & Chelsea council, including the leader, Nick Paget-Brown, resigned over the borough’s handling of the efforts to help those affected by the fire.

As well as looking at how to make high-rise residential blocks safer, the panel will consider whether there are any changes or clarifications required to existing regulations, and provide advice on possible changes, including making recommendations on the use of specific materials.

It will also look at whether the current processes for checking building safety are fit for purpose, and whether any changes are needed.