The new strategy, due in spring 2027, follows MHCLG’s call for evidence, which closed in August and received over 200 responses, including CIBSE’s own. The department has committed to co-designing the strategy with the sector.
The case for reform
The starting point for this new strategy was the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s conclusion that building safety depends on good design, suitable materials and sound construction, each of which rests in turn on the skill, knowledge and experience of the people involved. The strategy sits within the UK Government’s wider vision, developed as part the new Single Construction Regulator, of an integrated regulatory system that brings together buildings, products and people, and in which the building system is trusted.
The initial call for evidence outlined that the overall “system” for people in the built environment is not consistently working for individuals, companies, consumers or wider society, despite areas of good practice.
During the workshop, CIBSE members discussed:
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whether current failures present consistently across different buildings, project types and lifecycle stages
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which factors have the most significant impact on how individuals and organisations work and act
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what practical evidence supports the case for change.
The discussion centred on three interdependent pillars that will guide the strategy:
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the practical and technical expertise and workmanship required to design, build and maintain safe, quality buildings and environments
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the professionalism with which people approach their work, and the way the system is set up to enable, incentivise and reward good practice
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the way the system operates to promote individual and corporate responsibility, including effectively identifying and penalising inadequate standards.
Championing professionalism and competence
Much of this goes to the heart of what CIBSE does. Professional registration, continuing professional development and our corporate membership pathways, which recognise skills, knowledge and experience and, importantly, behaviours, all exist to give clients, employers and the public confidence in the people they rely on.
CIBSE will continue to work with MHCLG as the strategy develops and will keep members updated on further opportunities to contribute.
Read CIBSE’s responses to the call for evidence and the Single Construction Regulator consultation