The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the House of Commons Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee’s report on pre-legislative scrutiny of the draft Building Safety Bill.
RIBA Expert Panel on Fire Safety Chair, Jane Duncan, said:
“This timely report reiterates crucial concerns about the draft Building Safety Bill and demonstrates the urgent need for further legislative detail.
I especially welcome the emphasis placed on the near market failure of Professional Indemnity Insurance – a serious concern for our sector – and the Permitted Development loophole, which would enable some projects to bypass the proposed gateway process.
Widespread support for the extension of the scope of ‘higher-risk building’ is also reassuring, and the RIBA will continue to lobby for a definition that encompasses residential buildings above 11m.
As the draft progresses through Parliament, the RIBA stands ready to support this committee’s recommendation for collaboration between policymakers and the construction industry to ensure new legislation is thoroughly fit for purpose.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Press contact: Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org or +44 (0) 20 7307 3811.
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
