Grenfell Tower Inquiry has realised “deep institutional transformation” at LFB

Speaking in the wake of the report’s publication on 4 September, London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: “Our thoughts remain with the 72 people who lost their lives, the survivors, their families and the entire Grenfell community. We must never forget the impact the tragedy has had on that community.”

Roe continued: “On the night of the fire, the Brigade faced the most formidable challenge that any Fire and Rescue Service in the UK has confronted in living memory. Staff responding to the fire on the night of the tragedy, as well as members of other Emergency Services who attended in support of the Brigade, showed extreme courage in the face of the most appalling circumstances.”

Further, Roe noted: “In 2019, the Brigade accepted every recommendation from the Phase 1 report and we have since implemented significant changes to how we operate. This year, we completed every recommendation directed at us as part of Phase 1. We have introduced important policies, new equipment, improved training and introduced better ways of working, particularly in terms of how we respond to fires in high-rise residential buildings. Londoners are safer as a result. This was evidenced at the awful fire in Dagenham.”

Although the LFB is now better prepared to respond to high-rise fires, the organisation is not complacent. “We are in dialogue with the Government and the Mayor of London,” affirmed Roe, “as we all look at what must be done to ensure that buildings in London are safe. We will continue to collaborate with them, while always advocating for improved standards in the built environment to ensure greater safety.”

In conclusion, Roe said: “We recognise the importance of the Inquiry’s findings and recommendations. We will now set out an Action Plan detailing our response to each recommendation. This will be developed following consultation and in collaboration with the Grenfell community and our Community Forum.”