Agenda item

To receive a resolution from the Corporate Services Committee.

The Committee considered a resolution of the Corporate Services Committee concerning the City of London Corporation’s response to the findings of Volume 7 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report.

The Chair introduced the item by highlighting the significance of the Grenfell tragedy and the duty to consider the report’s implications with seriousness. Officers noted that the report was originally presented to Corporate Services Committee due to its oversight of health and safety across the organisation and emphasised the importance of keeping committees informed of ongoing developments and learnings post-Grenfell.

Officers confirmed that the recommendations in the report were broadly supported, with minor adjustments to better reflect operational realities—such as broadening the scope of reporting beyond just completed high-risk assessments. They also mentioned the development of a stronger health and safety team within the Community and Children’s Services Department, particularly focused on housing. It was noted that an action plan would be brought to both the corporate and local health and safety boards to monitor progress.

A Member raised concerns about the lack of prioritisation and timelines for the recommendations. Officers responded that a specialist in health and fire safety had been recruited and was conducting a gap analysis to inform an action plan. This plan would be reported to the departmental health and safety committee, with the first draft expected at the next meeting.

A Member expressed concern at the number of risks identified—reportedly 19—and sought clarification on the response to this volume. Officers explained that while the risks were being actively managed, the team was enhancing its monitoring through new software and processes. They acknowledged the need for additional resources and assured the committee that the most critical risks were being prioritised.

A Member inquired whether residents would have direct access to the newly appointed fire and safety officer. Officers responded that this would be considered as part of a broader strategy, including a resident engagement plan for higher-risk buildings. They also confirmed that the strategy would eventually encompass other property types such as sheltered housing, almshouses, and hostels.

A Member asked whether the Gresham almshouses were included in the scope and suggested engaging with the Almshouses Association for guidance. Officers welcomed the suggestion and confirmed that the strategy would indeed include such properties.

RESOLVED – That Members,

a)     Note the resolution made by Corporate Services Committee and;

b)     Agree to refer the request, to set in place a regular reporting rhythm to allow monitoring and escalation of issues, with assigned actions and action holders to the Housing Management & Alsmhouses Sub-Committee and;

c)      Agree a standing item on the Community & Children’s Services Committee agenda for updates on the matter for the Civic Year 2025/2026.