Government tightens targets for remediation of unsafe buildings

The Government has introduced a ‘Remediation Acceleration Plan’ to set stricter targets for fixing unsafe buildings in England.

The plan aims to speed up the remediation process, hold irresponsible freeholders accountable, and provide clearer timelines for residents. 

By the end of 2029, all high-rise buildings with unsafe cladding that are part of a Government-funded scheme will be remediated.

Additionally, every building with unsafe cladding will either be fixed, have a completion date, or face severe penalties for landlords who refuse to comply. 

Investments will support local authorities and the Building Safety Regulator in managing a higher volume of cases.

The Government is working with at least 29 developers to accelerate their remediation efforts, ensuring that all their projects are underway by summer 2027.

The plan came in the wake of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which revealed major safety failures.

Efforts will now focus on three objectives: speeding up fixes, identifying all unsafe buildings, and supporting residents during the remediation process.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “More than seven years on from the Grenfell tragedy, thousands of people have been left living in homes across this country with dangerous cladding. 

“The pace of remediation has been far too slow for far too long. We are taking decisive action to right this wrong and make homes safe. 

“Our Remediation Acceleration Plan will ensure those responsible for making buildings safe deliver the change residents need and deserve.”

Building Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home. By setting a clear timeline and firm deadlines, today’s announcement is a major step towards ensuring every building is made safe. 

“Our Remediation Acceleration plan will fix buildings faster, identify all buildings with unsafe cladding and support vulnerable residents.  

“This underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding residents and holding those responsible to account.

“We will not hesitate to actively pursue the owners of buildings who refuse to act.”