The RIBA has today responded to the Government’s announcement of new reforms to the building safety system.
Jane Duncan, Chair of the RIBA Expert Advisory Group for Fire Safety, said:
“The RIBA has long called for a radical overhaul of the building safety system – public safety must be prioritised. We therefore welcome the announcement that sprinklers will now be mandatory in new high-rise blocks of flats over 11 metres.
However, we know that fire does not discriminate between building type or height. The new measures still fall short of providing the strong regulatory framework that is required - too many homes and high-risk buildings continue to be exempt. Nearly three years have passed since the Grenfell Tower tragedy and we remain concerned that the Government is still not doing enough to keep our buildings and the people who use them safe.
We will continue to review these proposals to ensure that architects play the right role in ensuring that buildings are safe for all.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- For further press information contact: Isabel.campbell@riba.org or +44 (0) 20 7496 8349
- 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.
