By David Ascott, Managing Director.

The tragic events of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 brought the issue of unsafe cladding to the forefront of the nation’s consciousness, highlighting the urgent need for action in the construction sector. The government’s recent pledge of £1 billion for cladding remediation is a major step toward resolving the building safety challenges that have plagued the construction sector. This investment will go a long way in replacing dangerous cladding materials across the UK, with a focus on improving safety and ensuring compliance.

However, a report from the National Audit Office (NAO) reveals the scale of the work still required. Of an estimated 8,000 buildings affected, only 1,392 have been fully remediated. Alarmingly, two-thirds of these buildings have yet to be identified, highlighting the pressing need for improved strategies to tackle this crisis effectively.

The £1 billion investment provides a great opportunity for the construction sector to lead the way in tackling the cladding issue. With the right skills, capacity, and expertise, the construction sector is well-positioned to rise to the challenge. This is our moment to show how we can act to make buildings safer, stronger, and more compliant.

As demand for construction services continues to rise, it is vital to prioritise quality, safety, and compliance to achieve the goal: safer, fully remediated buildings. By embracing this opportunity, the construction sector can make a meaningful, lasting difference, ensuring every community is protected from the risks of unsafe housing.

David Ascott, Founder and Managing Director of Surveybase, says, “The government’s pledge marks a significant step forward and serves as a catalyst for critical research to assess risks and plan more effectively. Since Grenfell, we’ve partnered with construction companies, architects, property developers, landlords, and building managers to produce 3D cladding models and fire plans. However, these efforts have often been ad hoc. What’s needed now is a coordinated, nationwide programme where the industry unites as one, prioritising the safety of everyone living and working in high-rise buildings.”

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