New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser appointed to improve building safety

The new position is strategically positioned as part of the wider scientific adviser network across government, recognising the important role of both the construction and scientific sectors for building safety reform. 

It is just one of the recommendations in the Inquiry report being implemented by government following the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which took the lives of 72 people and exposed profound failings in building safety.  

The CCSA will provide independent construction, engineering and scientific advice on the safety, quality and resilience of buildings, as well as on productivity across the built environment sector. 

Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser, Sergio Cavalaro said: 

I am delighted to join MHCLG as Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser. I am committed to working with the Building Safety Regulator and across the wider sector to improve the safety, quality, resilience and productivity of the built environment.  

I look forward to providing independent advice and constructive challenge, while contributing to cross-government priorities through the network of Chief Scientific Advisers.

In addition, the Building Safety Levy – a tax on new eligible residential developments over 10 units – came into force on 1st October.  

The funds raised through the levy will support important building safety works, forming a key part of the government’s approach to ensure the industry contributes to fixing building safety defects, while protecting leaseholders and taxpayers. 

It’s expected to raise around £3.4 billion over the next ten years - providing vital funding to remove dangerous cladding and keep residents safe.     

The updates confirmed today form a key part of the government’s mission to improve the building safety system and enable everyone to feel confident in the safety of their home.