What's Happening?
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has made significant progress in its engagement with the construction industry, particularly in the context of higher-risk building (HRB) schemes. Over the past two
years, the industry has strengthened its internal capabilities, integrating class three building-regulations consultants and experienced design managers to better navigate the regulatory landscape. The BSR has granted 20 gateway two approvals for large-scale HRB developments, reflecting a more navigable system. However, the process remains a technical exercise, requiring project teams to have sufficient technical depth to address the regulator's questions effectively. The BSR is evolving, with proposals to remove smaller, lower-risk works from the gateway process, allowing regulatory focus on complex, high-risk activities. Additionally, discussions around staged gateway applications are underway, which could help maintain momentum and reduce program risk for large, complex schemes.
Why It's Important?
The developments within the BSR are crucial for the construction industry as they aim to create a more predictable and scalable regulatory system. By focusing on high-risk activities, the BSR can enhance life safety while reducing unnecessary regulatory friction. The introduction of staged approvals could potentially streamline processes for complex projects, although industry confidence in these partial approvals is still developing. The construction industry stands to benefit from a more efficient regulatory process, which could lead to increased project throughput and reduced delays. However, the industry's cautious approach to committing to major procurement without full BSR sign-off highlights the need for consistent and transparent regulatory practices.
What's Next?
The BSR and the Construction Leadership Council are expected to continue refining the regulatory process, with a focus on establishing clearer guidance and setting precedents for staged approvals. As the industry gains more confidence in these processes, the adoption of staged approvals may increase, potentially unlocking the intended benefits of reduced program risk and maintained project momentum. The ongoing dialogue between the BSR and the construction industry will be critical in shaping a regulatory environment that supports both safety and efficiency.
