Earlier this week, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) confirmed its intention to reform the regulator and minimise the delays such rules have on construction.

This will include 100 further staff members for the BSR and the introduction of a ‘fast-track process’ to accelerate the review of new-build applications.

Melanie Leech, CEO at the BPF, has welcomed this approach towards what she describes as “proportionate regulation.”

Specifically, she praised the addition of further resources to allow the BSR to grow its reach and the fast-track process to provide immediate relief.

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"We have been pushing for improvements to the performance of the BSR for several months, and it’s good to see the government respond with a significant package of measures,” said Melanie. 

“Delays in the operation of the building safety regime are undermining investor confidence, holding back the delivery of new homes and adding to uncertainty for residents still waiting for cladding to be removed from their buildings.

"We stand ready to work with the government to develop guidance and to consider the opportunity to harness technology to further improve processes at all stages of the building safety pathway."

The BSR, formed by the Building Safety Act 2022, also has new leadership.

Andy Roe has been appointed as non-executive chair of a new board at the MHCLG to take on some of the BSR’s functions.

Andy was previously commissioner of the London Fire Brigade.

Meanwhile Charlie Pugsley, deputy commissioner and operational director for prevention, protection and policy at London Fire Brigade, has been appointed as CEO at the BSR.