The Welsh Parliament has passed a major piece of legislation which will change the way fire safety in buildings is managed.
The Building Safety (Wales) Bill was passed on Tuesday, March 10 and is one of the largest pieces of legislation ever considered by the Senedd.
New building safety regime
The Bill establishes a building safety regime for shared buildings across Wales, regardless of height or tenure.
This legislation was inspired by the tragic events at Grenfell Tower.
There are three core principles of the Bill. The first is the requirement for fire risk assessments to be carried out by competent persons.
Criminal penalties will apply to those who do not comply.
The Bill also establishes clear legal responsibilities for those who manage buildings, ending any confusion about who is answerable for building safety risks.
It also champions residents’ voice, empowering them with clear routes of redress.
Landmark moment for building safety
Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: “Today marks a landmark moment for building safety in Wales.
“This legislation delivers a new building safety regime for residents across Wales, regardless of building type, height or tenure — going further than anything that exists elsewhere in the UK.
“None of this would have been possible without the support and expertise of so many partners.
“I want to pay particular tribute to the three Welsh Fire and Rescue Services and the many residents and leaseholders who shared their lived experience with us — their voices have shaped this legislation and will continue to matter as we implement it.
“By passing this Bill today, we have taken a huge step forward in ensuring that the people of Wales are safe in their homes.”
On the same day, the Welsh Government also published a report on progress being made to implement the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
