The Royal Institute of British Architects (°ÄÃÅÍõÖÐÍõ) has responded to the House of Commons Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee’s
°ÄÃÅÍõÖÐÍõ 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 °ÄÃÅÍõÖÐÍõ will continue to lobby for a definition that encompasses residential buildings above 11m.
As the draft progresses through Parliament, the °ÄÃÅÍõÖÐÍõ 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 (°ÄÃÅÍõÖÐÍõ) 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 for regular updates.