The prosecution relates to premises located at York Gardens in Hastings, which form part of the Queens Arcade, and follows on from an investigation by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service officers focused on fire safety arrangements at the premises.

As part of the investigation, an authorised fire safety inspector exercised statutory powers under Article 27 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Where necessary for the purpose of enforcing the Fire Safety Order, these powers enable authorised inspectors to enter and inspect premises, make enquiries and require the production of relevant information and documents.  

Brighton and Hove Magistrates’ Court heard that Ahudja, as the sole director of J&R Real Estate (the freeholder for the premises), failed, without reasonable excuse, to provide documents and information required by an authorised inspector in connection with the investigation.  

Following the investigation, J&R Real Estate and Ahudja were charged with offences under Article 32(2)(e) and Article 32(8) of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Guilty verdict

At Brighton and Hove Magistrates’ Court on 6 October, J&R Real Estate and Ahudja were found guilty of the offences. The case has been adjourned for sentencing, which is due to take place on 8 November.

George O’Reilly, assistant director for risk reduction at East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fire safety legislation is there to protect people from the potentially devastating consequences of fire. Our authorised inspectors have statutory powers, which enable them to obtain the information and evidence necessary to determine whether premises are being managed safely and whether those responsible are complying with their legal duties.”  

O’Reilly continued: “We will always seek to work constructively with businesses and ‘Responsible Persons’ to help them understand and meet their fire safety responsibilities. However, those responsible for premises must co-operate with our inspectors and comply with lawful requirements made as part of an investigation. Where they fail to do so, we will not hesitate to consider appropriate enforcement action.”

In conclusion, O’Reilly noted: “This successful prosecution demonstrates that East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service will use the enforcement powers available to us where necessary to uphold fire safety standards and protect the public.”

Legal duty  

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is reminding businesses, building owners and those responsible for premises that they have a legal duty to both understand and,, subsequently comply with their responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.  

All ‘Responsible Persons’ should ensure appropriate fire safety arrangements are in place at their premises and co-operate fully with authorised fire safety inspectors carrying out their statutory duties.

*Further information is available online at www.esfrs.org

With demand for its courses increasing, fire alarm system training provider Zzeus Training was looking for someone with deep technical knowledge, a strong grasp of the standards and lived experience when it comes to training industry professionals.

Davidson began his tenure in the industry back in 1982 as an engineer working on high-security projects. He spent most of his career at the NSI, where his roles included regional auditor, head of field operations, technical services manager and then Fire Schemes lead, training sector professionals and helping to assess the competence of engineers and company schemes.

For over two decades, Davidson represented the NSI on industry Boards and Working Groups, contributing directly to the development of not just BS 5839-1, but also BS 5839-6. As such, he will now be teaching on British Standards that he helped to write.

Davidson is a Fellow of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers and, through time, has helped to develop BAFE Schemes.

Now retired from the NSI, Davidson’s part-time involvement at Zzeus Training will see him deliver courses alongside Buddy Squires, including the four-day and five-day BS 5839 courses, the one-day BS 5839 refresher and the BS 5839-6 course.

Shared values

Tom Brookes, managing director at Zzeus Training, explained: “Extending our team of dedicated trainers is something we’ve been working towards for a long time. One of the reasons why our delegates choose to learn with us is due to who’s standing at the front of the room. As such, this was never an appointment we were going to rush.”

Brookes continued: “It had to be the right individuals: someone who shares our values, has the depth of knowledge we expect at Zzeus Training and who can maintain the highest standards of training we’re so proud to provide. We have now found the right individual. We’re thrilled to officially welcome John to the Zzeus team as our new trainer.”

John Davidson responded: “Helping people to understand fire safety has always been the part of the job I’ve loved the most. I’m grateful for the chance to keep doing so alongside the members of what is such an experienced team.”

Zzeus Training provides Level 3 EAL-recognised training and examinations for electricians and fire alarm engineers at its purpose-built Training Centre in Lincoln. Its courses are approved by the EAL, the ECA, the FSA, the ECS, the NSI and the SSILB.

*Further information, details of course dates and booking forms can be accessed online at www.zzeus.org.uk

Running from 10.00 am-11.30 am, the webinar aims to explain what has changed when it comes to external wall fire risk appraisals, why it has changed and how the revised approach adopted in PAS 9980:2026 actively supports more proportionate and risk-based decisions.

This online session offers important insights into the revised methodology for today’s fire engineers, surveyors, managing agents, building owners, housing providers, designers and consultants.

Following on from the introductions delivered by Anthony Burd (director of the built environment at the BSI), Stephen Porter (senior policy advisor at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) will spend 20 minutes reviewing external wall remediation policy.

The ensuing 30 minutes, focused squarely on the revisions to PAS 9980, is the domain of Dr David Crowder (partner at DCCH Experts LLP, the business specialising in the provision of expert fire safety advice in relation to fire incident investigation, building defects and challenging engineering problems). The webinar then concludes with a Q&A session hosted by Anthony Burd.

Ultimately, those who attend the webinar will learn about the following:

*the latest Government policy on external wall remediation and supporting guidance. 

*the underlying drivers behind the full revision of PAS 9980 

*the key changes from the previous edition and what they aim to achieve 

*how the revised methodology supports evidence and risk-based decision-making 

*what building owners, managing agents and duty holders need to understand 

*practical considerations for fire engineers, surveyors and consultants 

*the relationship between PAS 9980 and the Building Safety Act 2022 framework 

*common challenges and lessons learned from implementation

*Register online now by visiting www.bsigroup.com

At Kirklees Magistrates’ Court, Scanlans Property Management LLP pleaded guilty in relation to failing to comply with an Enforcement Notice issued under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The offences included a defective fire alarm system on-site and the continued display of incorrect evacuation signage within the building.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that, despite long-standing concerns, faults within the fire alarm system remained unresolved, resulting in numerous attendances by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service personnel due to the occurrence of false alarms. It was also established that evacuation notices advising residents to adopt a ‘Stay Put’ strategy remained in place, despite a simultaneous evacuation strategy being required.

In sentencing, District Judge Pitts found culpability to be high and concluded that the failures created a high likelihood of serious harm in the event of a fire.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court highlighted the risks posed to residents and noted that repeated false alarms could lead to complacency and delayed evacuation in an emergency.

The company was fined £153,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000 in addition to prosecution costs of £11,410.15, bringing the total financial penalty to a sum of £166,410.15.

Significant outcome

Chris Kemp KFSM MIFireE MInstLM, senior fire protection manager at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, commented: “This is a significant outcome which demonstrates the importance of complying with fire safety legislation and ensuring that residents are protected from avoidable risks.”

Kemp continued: “Kirklees Magistrates’ Court’s findings reinforce the seriousness of these failings and send a clear message that, where ‘Responsible Persons’ fail to address known fire safety issues, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action.”

Further, Kemp stated: “I would like to recognise the professionalism, determination and commitment shown by our Fire Protection Team members throughout this lengthy and complex investigation led by Group manager John Senior. This was an exceptionally thorough investigation, ensuring that the evidence presented to Kirklees Magistrates’ Court was robust, accurate and compelling.”

In conclusion, Kemp explained: “This successful prosecution reflects the high standards of our Fire Protection Team and our ongoing commitment to keeping the people of West Yorkshire safe.”

Case preparation

Following the hearing, Counsel Cassie Williams praised the investigation and case preparation, describing the result as a “great outcome” and recognising the quality of the evidence and witness statements that supported the prosecution.

The prosecution demonstrates West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s continued commitment to holding duty holders to account where fire safety failures place residents and communities at risk.

*Further information is available online at www.westyorksfire.gov.uk

Established through a partnership between OFR Consultants and the University of Edinburgh’s School of Engineering, the bursary will provide financial support to UK undergraduate students pursuing an engineering degree that could lead to a career in fire safety.

Priority will be given to those students studying for the University of Edinburgh’s BEng (Hons) and MEng (Hons) degrees in Structural and Fire Safety Engineering.

Alistair Henderson (pictured, right) was widely respected for his technical expertise, generosity and dedication to developing others. Sadly, he passed away following a battle with cancer back in 2020, OFR Consultants then sought a meaningful way in which to honour his legacy. The Alistair Henderson Bursary will help to ensure that his impact continues through the students and future engineers it supports for many years to come.

Through this initiative, OFR Consultants and the University of Edinburgh aim to help remove barriers to access in relation to higher education and encourage more students to pursue careers in a profession that plays a vital role in protecting people, places and communities.

Strengthened pathways

As one of the UK’s leading providers of structural and fire safety engineering education, the University of Edinburgh harbours a long-standing reputation for developing highly-skilled engineering professionals.

The Alistair Henderson Bursary represents a shared commitment between academia and industry to invest in future talent and strengthen pathways for all into the fire engineering profession.

Dr Danny Hopkin MEng FIFireE FIMechE, director at OFR Consultants, commented: “Alistair made an enormous contribution to fire engineering, not only through the quality of his technical work, but also through the time, care and encouragement he gave to others. The Alistair Henderson Bursary is a fitting way in which to recognise that legacy by helping talented students to access engineering education and consider a future in fire safety. We’re delighted to be working with the University of Edinburgh to support the next generation of engineers in Alistair’s name.”

Professor Luke Bisby from the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh explained: “The Edinburgh Fire Research Centre at the University of Edinburgh is delighted to partner with OFR Consultants to establish the Alistair Henderson Bursary, which opens the door to fire engineering for talented students who might otherwise never see it as a path for them.”

Bisby continued: “Widening participation is not simply about fairness in admissions. It’s also about strengthening our profession with the diversity of perspectives and lived experiences that lead to safer and better-designed buildings. This commitment reflects both the professional ambitions of some of the most dedicated members of the fire engineering community and the hard lessons of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Panel’s Phase 2 recommendations, which call for a more competent, better-resourced and more accountable fire safety sector. We’re proud to work with OFR Consultants to help develop the next generation of fire engineers who will carry that responsibility forward.”

Wider commitment

The launch of the Alistair Henderson Bursary forms part of OFR Consultants’ wider commitment to supporting learning, professional development and greater access to careers in engineering. By partnering with the University of Edinburgh, the company hopes to help inspire talented students who will then go on to shape the future of fire and structural engineering.

The Alistair Henderson Bursary will be awarded from the 2026-2027 academic year and is now open to eligible applicants through the University of Edinburgh.

*For more information about the Alistair Henderson Bursary and eligibility criteria visit https://registryservices.ed.ac.uk/scholarships-and-student-funding/prospective-undergraduates/uk-students/merit-based-scholarships-0

The appointment is strategically positioned as part of the wider scientific advisor network across Government, duly recognising the important role of both the construction and scientific sectors when it comes to building safety reform.

This development responds to one of the recommendations in the Public Inquiry report being implemented by Government following the tragedy at Grenfell Tower in June 2017 when the fire that occurred took the lives of 72 people and exposed profound failings in the building safety regime.  

The Chief Construction and Scientific Advisor will provide independent construction, engineering and scientific advice on the safety, quality and resilience of buildings, as well as on productivity right across the built environment sector.

Vital role

Baroness Blake, Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Resilience, commented: “Delivering safer buildings and protecting residents from costs remains our priority as we drive forward our building safety reforms. The Building Safety Levy is a key part of that mission.”

Further, Baroness Blake stated: “I’m thrilled to confirm the appointment of the Chief Construction and Scientific Advisor. Sergio will play a vital role in shaping our reforms to ensure that safety, robust regulation and high standards are at the core of the built environment sector.”

The Chief Construction and Scientific Advisor will also support the delivery of the remaining Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry recommendations and regulatory reform, acting as a bridge between Government, regulators, industry, professional and trade bodies, academia and residents.

Cavalaro will take on the role on a full-time basis, working closely with the interim Chief Construction Advisor, namely Thouria Istephan, across the next month to ensure a thorough handover period.

Improving safety and resilience

Speaking about his new role, Sergio Cavalaro explained: “I’m delighted to join the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) in the role of Chief Construction and Scientific Advisor. I’m wholly committed to working with the Building Safety Regulator and across the wider sector to improve the safety, quality, resilience and productivity of the built environment.”  

In conclusion, Cavalaro noted: “I look forward to providing independent advice and constructive challenge, while also contributing to cross-Government priorities through the network of Chief Scientific Advisors.”

The aforementioned Building Safety Levy – itself a tax on new eligible residential developments over ten units – came into force on 1st October.  

The funds raised through the Building Safety Levy will support important building safety works, forming a key part of the Government’s approach to ensure the industry contributes towards fixing building safety defects, while at the same time protecting leaseholders and taxpayers.

The Building Safety Levy is expected to raise circa £3.4 billion over the next ten years, thereby providing vital funding for the removal of dangerous cladding and keeping residents safe.

These confirmed updates form a key part of the Government’s mission to improve the building safety system and enable everyone to feel confident in the safety of their own home.

Cross-Government network  

Professor Angela McLean, the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor, said: “Congratulations to Professor Sergio Cavalaro on being appointed as the Chief Construction and Scientific Advisor at the MHCLG. He has led scientific research on several key areas related to the built environment. I look forward to working with him as part of the cross-Government network of chief scientists, where his expertise will be of great value.”

Building Safety Regulator chair Lord Roe stated: “At the Building Safety Regulator, we welcome the appointment of Sergio to this critical role. I look forward to engaging him on the work that we’re conducting so that we can benefit from his extensive experience in the built environment.”

Watson’s appointment “ensures continuity of leadership” and “reinforces the FIA’s commitment” to supporting its members, advancing fire safety standards and representing the interests of the fire sector across the UK.

With extensive experience in terms of leadership, governance and stakeholder engagement, Watson has played a significant role in guiding the FIA as chair. In his new capacity as interim CEO, Watson will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Trade Association, while also working closely with the Board, members, partners and colleagues in order to deliver the FIA’s strategic objectives.

Speaking about his appointment, Watson observed: “The Fire Industry Association plays a critical role in promoting fire safety, supporting professional standards and providing a strong voice for the industry. I’m honoured to take on the additional responsibility of interim CEO and look forward to working with our members, staff and stakeholders to continue building on the excellent work that’s already underway.”

Watson added: “My focus will be on ensuring stability, maintaining momentum and delivering value for our members, while in parallel continuing to champion the highest standards across the fire sector.”

The FIA Board has expressed its full confidence in Watson’s ability to provide leadership and continuity during this period. This appointment “reflects the Association’s commitment to maintaining strong governance” and, what’s more, ensuring that members continue to receive the support, representation and services they expect.

The FIA is the UK’s largest fire protection-focused Trade Association, representing over 1,300 members. As a not-for-profit, the organisation realises essential fire safety training, technical support and industry guidance, all the while working to shape legislation and professional standards and ensure the continual advancement of fire protection methods and practices.

*Further information is available online at www.fia.uk.com

Led by Nottingham Trent University and supported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), this latest research forms part of a three-year study investigating how well-being, organisational culture and career experiences interact and change over time across this vital element of the Emergency Services.

The two surveys look at different, but absolutely connected parts of working life. The Annual Well-Being Survey focuses on the person behind the role, while the Cultural Climate Survey is designed to explore how members of staff in the Fire and Rescue Service experience leadership and, indeed, the wider workplace environment. Together, they provide a fuller picture of experiences across the sector.

The surveys are open to all current Fire and Rescue Service personnel in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, across all roles, duty systems and career stages (including wholetime and on-call firefighters, Control Room staff, corporate and support employees, specialist teams and senior leaders).

Challenging environments

Abbi Exon, PhD researcher at Nottingham Trent University, explained: “Fire and Rescue Service personnel work in demanding and often challenging environments, but important gaps remain in the evidence. Much of what we know provides a snapshot at a single point in time, which cannot tell us how well-being and workplace experiences change as people move through their careers or as the Fire and Rescue Service itself changes. This research is designed to add that longer-term picture.”

Exon continued: “Ultimately, the research aims to build a stronger evidence base that can help the sector to better understand the experiences of its workforce. Whatever someone’s experience of working in the Fire and Rescue Service, whether positive, difficult or somewhere between the two, it’s important that this is reflected in the evidence.”

Further, Exon noted: “The more people who take part, the clearer the picture we can build of working life across the UK’s Fire and Rescue Services.”

Mapping work

The new research builds on the previous national well-being mapping work led by Nottingham Trent University and which identified important well-being pressures within the sector, highlighting gaps in understanding around career progression, organisational culture and long-term well-being.

The new surveys are open until 15 November

*Click to complete the Annual Well-Being Survey 
*Click to complete the Cultural Climate Survey

Responses are anonymous and individual data will not be shared with employers, the NFCC or any external organisations.

*Further information concerning the research is available to view on Nottingham Trent University’s project website

Highlights to 5 October 2026 (12-week rolling period)

Overall decisions

Over the last 12 weeks, the BSR made 378 Building Control decisions across all higher-risk building (HRB) categories, with an overall national approval rate of 87% (330 cases approved in total). These equate to 20,471 residential units.

New HRBs and conversions

For new HRBs and conversions, the approval rate (not including invalidations and withdrawals) has risen to 96% (55 approvals out of 57 decisions) with a median approval time of 23 weeks for 11,822 units. In London, approvals stood at 97% with a 22-week median approval time for 6,855 units.

Existing building remediation

Existing building remediation approvals stood at 87%, significantly exceeding the BSR’s annual target of 65% and equating to 8,649 units. In London, approvals stood at 96% (ie 52 approvals and 4,643 units).

National Health Service (NHS) applications

Approvals for NHS applications reached 81% nationally with 21 approvals from 26 decisions

National picture

Recent housing supply indicators from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) show significant quarterly starts in Q4 2025, as well as Q1 and Q2 of 2026, largely driven by the BSR’s operational reforms.

Increased applications received

The BSR activated contingency plans in order to deal with an expected surge of applications in advance of the introduction of the Building Safety Levy, which came into force on 1 October. These contingency plans introduce additional levels of scrutiny prior to rejection alongside a triage mechanism that will ensure applications are progressed appropriately.

New-build, conversion and complex projects

The BSR’s Innovation Unit has accelerated the assessment of applications for new high-rise residential buildings and major conversions. Over the latest 12-week period, the BSR made 57 decisions on new-build projects, approving 96% of applications (ie 55). These approved schemes represent 11,822 new residential units.

For comparison, in August 2025, the median approval time was 43 weeks and the approval rate stood at 39%.

Most new-build activity continues to take place in London, which accounted for 37 of the 57 national decisions made. The BSR approved 36 of these 37 projects in London, representing an approval rate of 97% in the capital and unlocking a total of 6,855 residential units. The median determination time in the capital was 22 weeks for non-complex cases.

While the BSR continues to drive internal improvements, the regulator is also actively engaged with the wider sector in order to improve consistency and the quality of applications.

London currently represents 60% of all in-progress new-build applications and 55% of the total residential units under active assessment (111 live applications representing 22,204 units). Nationally, the BSR is managing 186 live new-build and conversion applications representing 40,644 individual units.

In order to manage resources efficiently, the BSR tracks highly complex designs separately. Nationally, there are 30 live complex cases under active management with a median determination time of 34 weeks. London is managing 19 of these complex proposals with a median determination time of 35 weeks.

Regional Gateway 2 distribution

While London remains the primary hub for higher-risk building activity, managing 1,040 total live Gateway 2 applications, the rest of England accounts for 560 active Gateway 2 applications.

Outside of the capital, regional workloads are mainly concentrated in major urban development corridors across England including the South West (114 live Gateway 2 applications), the North West (109), the South East (84) and the East of England (63).

Recent statistics concentrating on Housing Supply: Indicators of New Supply (England): April to June 2026 from the MHCLG showed that the higher number of starts in 2025 Q4, 2026 Q1 and 2026 Q2 is, at least in part, due to the BSR reporting 7,089 total starts in 2025 Q4, 6,276 total starts in 2026 Q1 and 5,758 total starts in 2026 Q2.

Previously, the maximum number of starts the BSR had reported in a single quarter was 1,206 in 2025 Q3. For context, the MHCLG added that this followed reforms at the BSR to accelerate housebuilding that were announced back in June 2025.

Increased numbers of applications

In the period leading up to the introduction of the Building Safety Levy, the BSR experienced a notable increase in higher-risk building applications. September submissions rose to 64 in comparison to 34 in August, 17 in July and a total of 12 in June.

While application volumes can be influenced by a range of factors, the BSR anticipated the potential for increased demand ahead of the Building Safety Levy coming into force and put contingency arrangements in place to manage this. Those measures have now been deployed and build on the significant improvements made over the past 12 months to strengthen operational performance and reduce application processing times.

The BSR’s messaging in August and September highlighted to the sector that, in accordance with normal practice, the regulator would move to reject clearly sub-standard applications demonstrating significant gaps in compliance. While that remains the BSR’s position, the regulator is “acutely aware” of the impact that a rejection may have on the viability of a given project.

On that basis, the BSR has deployed additional scrutiny for this transitional period while the Building Safety Levy comes into force to ensure that any invalidation or rejection of an application is subject to second-line and third-line assurance checks before a final decision is communicated to the applicant. 

Applications that are rejected will be those where the BSR sees no realistic path to an approval within a reasonable time period.

While the BSR has bolstered resources to deal with the surge, an increase of 2-3 times the typical intake will mean that the regulator has to apply a triage and demand management process in order to avoid unduly impacting applications that are already in progress. The BSR will be in touch with applicants on an individual basis to discuss timelines for their projects.

New-build inspection regime

The BSR’s growing inspection programme has uncovered a small number of examples where building work has not conformed with agreed designs and required some remedial work. The BSR will monitor this closely and adopt a robust position where appropriate in order to help ensure that safe designs are translated into safe buildings.

Targeted operational measures under the BSR’s External Remediation Plan, introduced in April this year, have driven improvements in existing building remediation. The BSR determined 110 remediation applications over the 12-week rolling period, approving 96 projects (87% approval rate) representing 8,649 residential units.

In London, the regional remediation approval rate reached 96% (52 approved from 54 decisions), duly unlocking 4,643 units. Nationally, 2026 approval rates already exceed the BSR’s annual target of 65%.

The BSR has also reduced outstanding legacy applications in the system. The volume of remediation cases dating from 2024 has fallen from 42 at the start of the year to six in London and one outside of the capital. These older and more complex applications had an overall rolling 12-week median determination time of 32 weeks as teams worked to resolve historic design and safety issues.

In November 2025, approval rates stood at 32% with a decision time of 44 weeks. Approval rates currently stand at 87% with a median decision time of 32 weeks. However, newer applications submitted in 2026 are progressing in circa 22 weeks (with high approval rates), thereby showing significant improvements.

The BSR is currently managing 313 active remediation cases nationally, representing 26,259 residential units (and a total of 180 cases in London representing 14,298 units).

National Health Service applications

Building Control applications for NHS healthcare facilities (including hospital maintenance, expansions and structural upgrades) are tracked as a distinct regulatory category to reflect their national importance.

Over the rolling 12-week period, the BSR made 26 determinations on NHS applications, approving 21 for an 81% national approval rate and a median approval determination time of 20 weeks.

The BSR’s specialist healthcare teams work with NHS Trusts to resolve design complexities early on. For NHS applications submitted in 2026, the median determination time has fallen to 17 weeks, with some recent projects securing approval within the statutory eight-week timeline.

London accounted for a significant share of healthcare upgrades, achieving a 78% NHS approval rate with seven projects approved from nine determinations. The median determination time in the capital was 20 weeks, in turn reflecting the complexity of urban hospital sites. Nationally, the BSR is managing 32 active NHS Building Control cases (18 of them in London).

Refurbishments and early Gateway 3 indicators

Category A and B internal refurbishments accounted for 185 decisions over the last 12 weeks, representing 49% of all Gateway 2 decisions. These applications include all internal refurbishment works except for NHS projects.

The BSR achieved an 85% approval rate (158 approvals) with a median approval determination time of 31 weeks. For refurbishment applications submitted in 2026, the median determination time has dropped to 21 weeks.

New applications were received at an average rate of 38 per week over the 12 weeks, although weekly submissions in September and early October dropped back to the pre-August baseline of 33 per week.

The BSR is currently overseeing 1,109 active cases nationally for internal refurbishment works (749 in London). While no new-build projects have yet transitioned to final occupation certificate assessments, a significant volume of internal refurbishments has entered the final regulatory stage.

Of the 361 Gateway 3 applications received, 274 of them are internal refurbishments with most of the remainder being transitional cases (42) and NHS internal refurbishments (27).

Over the last 12 weeks, the BSR determined nine Gateway 3 applications, achieving a 100% approval rate with a median determination time of 20 weeks. The quickest approval was completed in 16 weeks. Active in-progress cases at Gateway 3 currently stand at 122 for internal works, 19 for NHS works and eight for external remediation (972 units).

Live major change requests

In order to manage design modifications safely during construction, the BSR is processing 208 live major change requests made up of new HRBs and conversions (85), external remediation (25), HRB internal works (71), NHS applications (24) and transitional cases (3). These reviews ensure that post-approval modifications undergo thorough safety assessments. Over the last 12 weeks, the BSR has closed 142 major change requests.

For new-build developments, the median time to close a major change request is seven weeks (ie one week over the statutory target of six weeks).

In order to support the sheer volume of building safety-centred decisions, the BSR has expanded its workforce. The current regulatory resource profile comprises 181 internal BSR core staff members (103 regulatory leads, 18 principal regulatory leads, 56 case officers, three case officer managers and one administrative officer) and 491 external technical specialists (239 registered building inspectors, 102 Fire and Rescue Service professionals, 116 structural engineers and 34 specialists).

Of the 491 individuals sourced or seconded from external organisations, 62 are integrated into the BSR’s Innovation Unit or external remediation teams (34 registered building inspectors, six Fire and Rescue Service professionals and 22 structural engineers) in a bid to accelerate decision times.

Strong regulatory momentum

Charlie Pugsley, acting CEO of the Building Safety Regulator, explained: “Our latest performance figures demonstrate strong regulatory momentum, with overall Gateway 2 approvals reaching 87% and clearing more than 20,000 residential units alongside significant numbers of vital NHS healthcare facility improvements.”

Pugsley continued: “Approval rates for safe designs are high, while determination times continue to reduce significantly across both new-builds and remediation projects, in turn reflecting the positive impact of our streamlined operational pathways. However, we’re not complacent and continue to engage with the sector to improve performance and ensure safe outcomes.”

Further, Pugsley noted: “To manage application volumes, including additional applications received ahead of the introduction of the Building Safety Levy, we continue to expand our internal capacity and integrated specialist technical workforce. This increased resourcing is enabling us to process applications more efficiently, while always being mindful of maintaining necessarily rigorous and essential safety assessments.”

Pugsley concluded: “As buildings progress through the in-build phase to Gateway 3, we will continue to enhance and refine systems and processes to ensure that safe designs are translated into safe buildings. As always, our core focus remains the same. The safety of residents and our communities remains at the very heart of everything that we do.”

*Building Control Approval Application Cata - Making Buildings Safer

**Transparency Data – Building Safety Regulator Building Control Approval Application Data: July 2026-September 2026

Now in its ninth year, the 2026 event witnessed 16 candidates take part in three days of practical training at Capita’s Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh, supported by representatives from Securitas UK and the London Fire Brigade.

The Firefighting Weekend afforded participants the opportunity to put their existing training into practice through a range of challenging scenarios designed to develop their practical skills, teamwork and confidence.

Across the programme, participants took part in a varied series of practical exercises, including hose and ladder drills and breathing apparatus training.

They were also faced with simulated emergency scenarios, including a road traffic accident and a Fish and Chip Shop fire, requiring them to draw on their training and work together in more realistic and challenging situations.

The 2026 Firefighting Weekend concluded with an awards ceremony recognising the achievements and hard work of the participating Fire Cadets.

Supporting the next generation

The annual Firefighting Weekend forms part of Securitas UK’s long-standing relationship with the London Fire Brigade and provides Fire Cadets with an opportunity to experience realistic firefighting scenarios in a controlled training environment.

Paul Rankin, director of fire and aviation at Securitas UK, explained: “It has been incredibly inspiring to see what these young Fire Cadets have achieved over the course of the Firefighting Weekend. The confidence, teamwork and determination they’ve demonstrated should make them all incredibly proud.”

Rankin continued: “At Securitas, we’re fully committed to creating positive impacts in the communities we serve. That’s why our partnership with the London Fire Brigade and its Firefighting Weekend for Fire Cadets is so important. This year marks nine years of the business supporting this fantastic programme and helping young people to develop valuable skills, build confidence and explore future opportunities.”

Further, Rankin observed: “Experiences like this can be truly life-changing. Whether these Fire Cadets go on to begin careers in the Emergency Services or choose a different path, the skills and experiences they’ve gained here will stay with them for years to come. Congratulations to every Fire Cadet who has taken part and grateful thanks to everyone who has helped to make the 2026 Firefighting Weekend such a tremendous success.”

Mark Lester, operations director at Capita’s Fire Service College, observed: “At Capita’s Fire Service College, we’re proud to work alongside Securitas UK and the London Fire Brigade in supporting Fire Cadets and the vital role they play in the future of our sector. Through realistic training environments, expert instruction and immersive experiences, we support young people by providing a genuine insight into the Fire and Rescue Service, inspiring the next generation of Emergency Services professionals and community leaders.”

Fire Cadets Programme

London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets Programme is open to youngsters aged from 13 to 17, affording them the opportunity to learn firefighting and life skills, while in parallel developing their confidence, leadership and teamwork.

More than 3,500 young people have completed the Fire Cadets Programme since it began back in 2013, with upwards of 150 former Fire Cadets going on to secure employment with the London Fire Brigade.

Securitas UK works alongside the London Fire Brigade to give Fire Cadets the opportunity to build on their training and experience some of the challenges faced by operational firefighters.