NEWS IN NUMBERS
Grenfell Tower after the devastating fire
98% The percentage of homes with external wall insulation installed under the ECO scheme requiring remedial work. Source: ONS
New Chief Construction Adviser appointed to enhance safety
S mall and medium-sized builders may soon feel the impact of a renewed government focus on building safety, following the appointment of a new Interim Chief Construction Adviser. Architect Thouria Istephan, who spent 25 years with Foster & Partners and sat on the Grenfell Tower inquiry panel, was named by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) as the government’s independent adviser on construction. The role – dormant
of responsibility” for safety are “in the wrong job”, will serve for 12 months on a part-time basis. While the inquiry panel urged that the adviser be supported by a “sufficient budget and staff”, no details have yet been provided about the resources attached to the position. That uncertainty will be watched closely by SMEs across the sector, who often bear the brunt of new regulatory requirements without additional support. Speaking on her new role, Istephan said: “This represents a unique
15% The percentage by which building costs are likely to rise in the next five years. Source: Building Cost Information Service (BCIS)
opportunity to provide independent advice that promotes progressive and proportionate standards. I am committed to playing my part in addressing the devastating consequences of past failures.”
for several years – was reinstated as one of the key recommendations of the Grenfell final report. Istephan, known for her warning that those in construction who do not “feel the weight
9 The number of consecutive months in 2025 in which construction activity dropped. Source: S&P Global Market Intelligence
Thouria Istephan
9
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