What's Happening?
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is making progress in its approach to staged approvals for higher-risk building (HRB) schemes. Over the past six months, the BSR has improved its engagement with the industry,
resulting in 20 gateway two approvals for large-scale HRB developments. The regulator is evolving to focus on complex, high-risk activities, potentially reducing unnecessary friction for contractors and clients. However, there is still reluctance from developers to proceed without full BSR sign-off due to commercial risks. The BSR's new guidance on staged applications aims to maintain momentum and reduce program risk, but confidence and consistency from the regulator are crucial for wider adoption.
Why It's Important?
The BSR's approach to staged approvals is significant for the construction industry as it seeks to balance safety with project efficiency. By focusing on high-risk activities, the BSR can streamline processes and reduce delays, which is crucial for maintaining project timelines and budgets. The industry's cautious stance highlights the need for clear and consistent regulatory guidance to build confidence in the new system. Successful implementation of staged approvals could lead to more predictable and scalable safety regulations, benefiting both developers and residents by ensuring safety without stalling construction progress.
What's Next?
As the BSR continues to refine its approach, the industry will be watching closely to see if staged approvals gain traction. The regulator's ability to provide clear guidance and set precedents will be key to increasing developer confidence. If successful, this could lead to broader adoption of staged approvals, potentially transforming how safety regulations are applied in complex construction projects. The industry's response will likely influence future regulatory developments and the overall effectiveness of the BSR's safety framework.
