BSR update shows 108 new build decisions over 12 weeks to 25 February

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

BSR Gateway 2 update and reporting changes

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has set out planned changes to how it reports progress on Gateway 2 applications, alongside updated volumes for decisions, invalidations and live cases in the 12-week rolling period to 25 February 2026.

The BSR said it has changed how it represents application progress by removing invalid applications from progress percentages, describing invalid applications as those lacking basic critical safety information and normally invalidated within around one week.

Percentages of withdrawn, rejections and approvals are now shown as a proportion of the total number of applications that passed validation.

Closed applications across all categories totalled 639 in the past 12 weeks, including 273 invalidations.

The number of live applications of all categories was reported as 1,212.

Across all Gateway 2 categories, 65% of closed applications were related to London cases, with 404 made in the capital over the past 12 weeks.

Remediation improvement plan due to be announced

A remediation improvement plan is set to be formally announced and introduced over the coming weeks.

The plan is intended to improve the efficiency, quality and timeliness of applications for remediation projects.

It will focus on strengthening BSR resource capacity, improving internal processes and supporting industry to submit higher quality applications.

The update reported 86 remediation decisions made since December 2025, including 41 in London, and 77 new cases received.

There were 279 live remediation cases being processed, representing 24,282 units.

The BSR said late 2025 and early 2026 remediation applications are averaging around 18 weeks, with complex older remediation cases taking longer for decisions.

It said it will publish specific remediation guidance in the coming weeks, alongside improved feedback and support for applicants.

New build decisions, legacy cases and Innovation Unit activity

Gateway 2 new build applications in the 12-week rolling period to 25 February recorded 108 decisions, with 82 new applications received.

New build applications representing 15,178 residential units were received, with decisions on 23,197 units issued, including 10,514 approvals.

There were 31,191 units in live cases.

Legacy cases reduced from 60 at the start of December to three normal applications, with a separate cohort of 18 applications with significant technical issues moved into a complex case category.

The BSR said approval rates of legacy cases continue to be 53%.

The BSR Innovation Unit (IU) made 27 decisions in the past 12 weeks, including 10 in London, and is currently managing 123 live new build applications representing 26,224 units, with 69 of those in the capital.

Eleven applications have been approved with a median approval time of 18 weeks.

For post-validation applications, 33% are approved and 33% rejected, with the remainder under active account management.

Charlie Pugsley, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Building Safety Regulator, said: “We continue to see improvements to the numbers of decisions being made for new build applications, and the numbers of safe homes being made available for the future.

“We also continue to engage even more closely with applicants to help improve the quality of those applications and that continues to see tangible results that will make a real difference.

“However, we recognise that current determination times are falling short of our targets for remediation.

“Our Remediation improvement plan, which will be formally announced and rolled out operationally over the coming weeks, will represent a targeted package of focussed measures to reset the system.

“But speed can never come at the cost of safety, whether that be for new build or existing homes.

“Our goal continues to be to ensure that industry can construct safe buildings, and that residents can see the essential safety improvements they deserve without unnecessary delays.”

The update also described a batching pilot for bundling new build and remediation applications for accelerated assessment, stating that initial data indicates faster processing times than previous methods and that the model remains under evaluation.

Firefighters remain exposed to hazardous fire residues despite policy changes, says London Assembly Report

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPE

Firefighters continue to face exposure to toxic contaminants

A London Assembly Fire Committee report warns that firefighters in London may be routinely exposed to hazardous substances released during fires.

The report Exposure to fire contaminants in London: A hidden, growing risk? was produced by the London Assembly Fire Committee.

The findings identify asbestos, heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants among contaminants present at incidents.

The Committee notes that definitive UK evidence on cancer causation is still emerging.

Research presented to the Committee shows higher cancer incidence and abnormal tumour markers among firefighters compared with the general population.

Fire Brigade Union commissioned research found that 4% of firefighters surveyed, around 1 in 25, reported a cancer diagnosis in a self-reported sample of more than 11,000 personnel.

Prevalence was highest among those aged 35 to 39, around three times the rate seen in the general population.

Between 10% and 15% of respondents were recorded as having abnormal tumour markers, compared with a control group drawn from the public.

Policy progress and recommendations for national action

The Committee concludes that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) Fire Contaminants Policy has shifted attitudes away from the “badge of honour” of dirty kit.

Implementation varies widely across stations, partly because of limitations in personal protective equipment availability and older station layouts.

The Committee urges the Government and the National Fire Chiefs Council to reduce firefighters’ exposure to fire contaminants.

Recommendations include creating a UK-wide exposure and health monitoring programme for firefighters.

A pilot of operational exposure monitoring in London is also proposed.

Further measures call for stronger training, assurance and compliance with fire contaminants policies, improved PPE supply and procurement planning, and greater emphasis on health promotion within occupational health services.

The Committee also asks the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council to review evidence on cancer risks linked to firefighting.

Chair of the London Assembly Fire Committee Zack Polanski AM said: “Fires don’t end when the flames are out as toxic contaminants can remain long afterward.

“Firefighters accept risk as part of the job, but exposure to toxic chemicals should not be an unavoidable consequence of protecting the public.

“While London Fire Brigade has made real progress, this report shows more needs to be done to understand and reduce the long-term health risks firefighters face.”

The report treats decontamination practices, station design and long-term health monitoring as closely connected areas for further action.

Lifestyle references criticised by the Fire Brigades Union

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has responded to the London Assembly Fire Committee report Exposure to fire contaminants in London: A hidden, growing risk?.

In its statement, the FBU said the report includes a recommendation referring to “positive lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation, physical fitness, diet, sleep hygiene, and alcohol awareness”.

Steve Wright, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said: “Firefighters are dying younger and living with life-altering cancers and chronic illness.

“These are preventable occupational deaths, and this is a national scandal.

“The UK is decades behind other countries on this issue, and this report underlines the urgent need for basic, long-overdue measures: stronger prevention measures, regular health monitoring for all firefighters, and re-evaluation of compensation for firefighters’ occupational diseases.

“However, firefighters will rightly find the references to ‘lifestyle’ offensive.

“Firefighters are not getting sick because of personal choices – they are getting sick because they are being systematically exposed to toxic substances in the course of their work.

“When so many other countries and international bodies are doing the right thing and recognising the risks firefighters face, it is time for our own government to stop ignoring the evidence and act.”

Anna Stec, Professor of Fire Chemistry and Toxicity at the University of Lancashire, said: “While the report makes positive recommendations on the need for a UK-wide rollout of harmonised contamination exposure tracking and health monitoring for firefighters, the argument that firefighter cancers and diseases could be reduced through lifestyle changes is fallacious.

“Lifestyle factors influence health outcomes in any population, but they do not explain the elevated rates of cancer and disease seen in firefighters.

“Why should firefighters be expected to adopt such changes in order to compensate for the toxic environments they are routinely exposed to at work?”

Report Summary: Exposure to fire contaminants in London: A hidden, growing risk?

Why the investigation was launched

The report states that firefighters are expected to accept risk as part of their work, but that exposure to fire contaminants represents an emerging and less visible risk, particularly in relation to cancer.

Purpose of the Committee’s inquiry

The London Assembly Fire Committee launched its investigation to examine how these risks are manifesting in London, the evidence linking exposure to cancer, and what actions could better protect firefighters locally and nationally.

Nature of exposure in London

Evidence presented to the Committee indicates that firefighters in London are exposed to products of combustion at fire incidents, and that these exposures are broadly similar to those faced elsewhere in the UK.

Cumulative exposure in London

Witnesses told the Committee that, because of the high number of fires attended in London, there may be risks associated with cumulative exposure, even though London is otherwise comparable to other large metropolitan areas.

Evidence and uncertainty on cancer causation

The report notes that definitive UK evidence of direct causal links between firefighting and specific cancers is still developing, given the varied nature of exposures and the time it can take for related illnesses to emerge.

International evidence context

The Committee references the International Agency for Research on Cancer’s 2023 designation of occupational exposure as a firefighter as carcinogenic, while also noting that more UK-specific research is needed.

Why uncertainty should not delay action

The Committee argues that the absence of definitive causal proof should not prevent action, and that better assessment, measurement and tracking of exposure is needed.

Call for a national monitoring programme

The report recommends that central government, working with the National Fire Chiefs Council and devolved administrations, establish a UK-wide firefighter exposure and health monitoring programme with national standards for data collection and long-term surveillance.

Recommendation on compensation evidence review

The Committee recommends that the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council undertake a fresh review of the evidence on cancer risks linked to firefighting, in light of developments since its 2021 position paper.

Progress made by London Fire Brigade

The Committee recognises that London Fire Brigade (LFB) has taken several steps since publishing its Fire Contaminants Policy in 2022, and that this has led to a clear cultural shift away from viewing dirty kit as a “badge of honour”.

Key elements of the policy in practice

The report describes changes such as safe disrobe procedures, the use of designated zones within fire stations to reduce cross-contamination, and the expectation that firefighters should shower within an hour of exposure.

Changes to frontline practice

Witnesses and site visits indicated that firefighters are now more focused on decontamination at incidents and on preventing secondary exposure when returning to stations or fire engines.

Persistent practical barriers

The report identifies ongoing challenges with the availability of personal protective equipment, including shortages reported in 2025, which have affected implementation of the policy in some cases.

Financial and operational pressures

The Committee notes that increased cleaning and replacement of PPE are placing additional pressure on fire and rescue service budgets.

Station design as a structural constraint

The report finds that many older fire stations were not designed with modern contamination control in mind, making it difficult to separate clean and contaminated areas consistently.

Cross-contamination risks in existing stations

The Committee observed that, in some stations, contaminated equipment still has to pass through areas intended to remain clean because of building layout constraints.

Recommendations on future PPE contracts

The report recommends that LFB ensure its next PPE contract is designed to meet current and anticipated demands from fire contaminants policies, including more frequent cleaning, faster turnaround times and sufficient stock levels.

Recommendation on exposure monitoring in London

The Committee calls for LFB to develop a time-limited pilot exposure monitoring programme for operational firefighters, scoped in 2026/27 and launched in 2027/28, developed with academic and occupational health experts.

Existing health screening arrangements

The report records that London firefighters receive routine medicals every three years, including basic cardiorespiratory checks and an asbestos-specific element.

Limits of cancer screening

The Committee notes that comprehensive cancer screening for firefighters is complex, and that some cancers most strongly associated with firefighting, such as mesothelioma and bladder cancer, do not currently have safe, reliable population-level screening tests in routine NHS use.

Prevention and occupational health

The report recommends that LFB strengthen its prevention-focused approach by embedding proactive health promotion, including support around smoking cessation, fitness, diet, sleep and alcohol, within routine occupational health provision.

Regulatory context

The Committee records that the Health and Safety Executive considers the existing regulatory framework, including the Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH regulations and Workplace Regulations, sufficient to reflect firefighting’s classification as a carcinogenic occupation.

Overall conclusion of the Committee

The Committee concludes that LFB’s Fire Contaminants Policy represents a substantial step forward, but that further national coordination, better exposure data, improved PPE systems and updated fire station design standards are needed to reduce long-term health risks for firefighters.

Building Safety Regulator reports rising Gateway 2 approvals across high-rise projects

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Record Gateway 2 decisions to 24 November

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has reported a record 272 Gateway 2 building control decisions to 24 November 2025 for new high-rise residential buildings, with overall determinations now totalling 578 since 31 August.

According to BSR, Gateway 2 determinations have continued to rise across all application types under its pilot operational processes.

The regulator reported an approval rate of 73%, with a large proportion of these decisions made through the recently enhanced approval with requirements route.

BSR stated that 76% of all Gateway 2 decisions to 24 November related to London cases, equating to 206 determinations in the latest update period.

Since 31 August, 409 Gateway 2 decisions have been made for London projects, with 85% of these utilising the approval with requirements pathway.

Historic applications, live cases and unit numbers

BSR confirmed that 40 of 103 historic new build applications submitted under the previous model had been resolved between 31 August and 24 November.

Of these 40 decisions, 20 related to London cases.

The regulator said a minimum of 9 further previous model applications have been assessed as ready to move through the approval with requirements route, subject to final checks and applicant agreement.

The remaining 54 historic applications are a key focus for BSR through to the end of the year.

Face-to-face meetings with regulatory partners are planned during December to finalise the majority of these outstanding cases.

Up to 24 November, BSR reported that new build applications representing 16,313 residential units had been received under Gateway 2.

Over the same period, approvals representing 11,138 units had been issued.

The regulator stated that 36,023 residential units are currently covered within 167 live Gateway 2 cases.

Innovation Unit and batching process in operation

BSR’s latest update highlighted the role of its Innovation Unit (IU) in managing high-rise residential applications.

The IU, described as a dedicated team of registered building inspectors and technical engineers, is currently handling 73 live new build applications representing 17,076 residential units.

According to BSR, the IU is delivering shorter processing times by validating applications rapidly and rejecting incomplete submissions so that applicants can address issues and resubmit.

The regulator reported that the early cohort of IU-managed applications is now being expedited to resolve technical issues, with first approvals from this route expected during December.

BSR is also implementing a batching process, launched in September, which groups applications for assessment by specialised engineering services suppliers.

Mixed-category bundles covering 217 new build and remediation cases have been dispatched under this pilot process.

The organisation said bundles continue to be issued weekly, based on supplier capacity.

BSR is developing a focused plan to apply lessons from these recent processes to remediation cases in the new year.

BSR outlook for Gateway 2 operations

BSR stated that its Operational Team is directly engaging with applicants and regulatory partners while working through individual blockers to keep cases moving.

The regulator linked this approach to the rate at which historic applications are now being closed.

Charlie Pugsley, Chief Executive Officer of the Building Safety Regulator, said: “The immediate, positive results we saw from our pilot operational changes have established a strong foundation for continued success.

“We are on track to continue to clear the majority historic cases by the end of December by engaging with applicants and our regulatory partners, seeing the benefits of our new batching system, and building upon the initial hard work of the Innovation Unit.

“Across BSR there is a confidence that projected milestones remain achievable, but rightly we remain cautiously optimistic.

“We are fully committed to supporting the pace of essential construction while upholding the essential safety standards that keep people safe in new and also existing homes.”

What the latest Gateway 2 data means for built environment projects

The latest Gateway 2 figures from BSR provide new detail on how high-rise residential building control applications are moving through the new regime.

Architects, fire engineering consultants and building services engineers working on high-rise residential projects can see that 73% of Gateway 2 determinations have resulted in approval, often through the approval with requirements route, which sets a clear pattern for how compliant submissions are being handled.

For developers, facility managers and risk assessors, BSR’s focus on resolving the remaining 54 historic applications, supported by face-to-face meetings with regulatory partners in December, indicates how historic cases may be brought into line with current expectations on structure and evidence.

The Innovation Unit’s management of 73 live applications representing 17,076 units, combined with rapid validation and rejection of incomplete submissions, sets practical expectations for the quality and completeness required at submission stage.

System installers and fire-protection contractors engaged in high-rise residential schemes can relate the reported unit and case volumes – including 36,023 units in 167 live cases – to likely sequencing of design, installation and inspection activity under the Gateway 2 process.

The batching of 217 new build and remediation cases for external engineering assessment shows how capacity is being organised around specialist review, which may affect how technical information is prepared and presented in complex projects.

What firefighters learned inside London’s historic Royal Academy of Music during an emergency rescue drill

by Breaking NewsHeritageTraining

Fires at historic buildings in London

London Fire Brigade has reported that 282 fires occurred at historic buildings in the capital between July 2024 and June 2025.

The Brigade said the figures show why heritage sites must maintain current salvage plans to protect buildings and collections during emergencies.

In 2024, Somerset House was affected by a fire, and crews carried out life-saving procedures before moving to protect the building’s cultural assets.

The Brigade explained that this incident highlights the importance of rehearsed salvage planning alongside firefighting operations.

It added that protecting lives remains the top priority, followed by preserving the building and its contents where possible.

Training exercise at the Royal Academy of Music

London Fire Brigade firefighters recently trained at the Royal Academy of Music in Marylebone to practise emergency rescue and salvage operations.

The exercise involved crews from Hendon, Kentish Town and West Hampstead Fire Stations, with a Command Unit from Park Royal Fire Station.

The Brigade confirmed that the mock incident took place at the Grade II listed building near Regent’s Park.

It said the aim was to test the joint response between firefighters and the Academy’s collections team during a simulated 999 call.

The Brigade added that staff and firefighters practised how to remove or protect historic artefacts safely.

Salvage planning and priorities

London Fire Brigade’s Heritage Co-ordinator, Sub Officer Mark Huntington said: “As London’s rescue service our priority is always to preserve life, then the building and its contents.

“If you have pre-prepared plans, and know your building, you’ll protect lives, utilise valuable time and save more of your building and its contents.

“These plans are vital as they detail not only actions that should be implemented by site staff, but also clearly identify priority items which need to be removed from the building or left protected, in situ, which the Brigade can assist with.”

The Brigade explained that these plans are intended to streamline operations during emergencies.

It added that such preparation allows crews to act faster and more effectively.

Firefighting tactics and preparedness

Station Commander Adam Lawson said: “This exercise with the Royal Academy of Music was an excellent opportunity to ensure we can effectively preserve items of historical significance.

“Crews practised firefighting tactics and put plans into practical use to ensure procedures were effective in the event of a fire, ensuring that firefighters and The Academy are now fully prepared should the worst happen.”

The Brigade confirmed that training exercises of this type form part of its wider preparedness strategy.

It said drills allow operational procedures to be tested before real incidents occur.

Collaboration with the Academy

Dean of Students at the Academy, Elizabeth Kenny, said: “Our Collections Team, led by Head of Collections Susana Caldeira, worked closely with the Brigade on this practical exercise, testing and sense-checking our emergency salvage procedures.

“We found the collaboration very productive and valuable, from first contact to preparing and delivering the exercise across our heritage site.”

The Academy said it intends to use the outcomes of the exercise to strengthen internal salvage procedures.

It added that working directly with the Brigade gave staff greater awareness of their roles during emergencies.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The Brigade’s report highlights the number of fires at historic buildings in London and underlines the importance of planning for both life safety and cultural preservation.

Fire safety professionals can see from this case how pre-prepared salvage plans can be integrated into emergency response.

The training also shows the value of close cooperation between building staff and firefighters in protecting heritage assets.

Emergency rescue training at Royal Academy of Music: Summary

London Fire Brigade reported 282 fires at historic buildings in London between July 2024 and June 2025.

The Brigade said the figures show the importance of salvage planning at heritage sites.

In 2024, Somerset House was affected by fire and salvage operations protected cultural assets.

The Brigade confirmed it carried out a training exercise at the Royal Academy of Music in Marylebone.

Crews from Hendon, Kentish Town, West Hampstead and Park Royal stations attended the drill.

The exercise simulated a 999 call at the Grade II listed building near Regent’s Park.

The Brigade said firefighters worked with the Academy’s collections team on artefact preservation.

Sub Officer Mark Huntington said prepared plans save lives, time and heritage items.

Station Commander Adam Lawson said the exercise improved salvage preparedness.

Dean of Students Elizabeth Kenny said the collaboration tested the Academy’s salvage procedures.

Locked doors, cat flaps and chlorine leaks: the rescues London firefighters respond to daily

by Featured NewsSearch and Rescue

Firefighters in London rescue six people every day

New figures from London Fire Brigade have revealed that London firefighters rescued 3,627 people between January 2024 and June 2025.

According to the Brigade, this amounts to an average of more than six rescues every day across the capital.

The data includes rescues from 43 different incident types, including fires, water emergencies, chemical incidents and lift entrapments.

The most common rescue was where a person had collapsed behind a locked door, accounting for 1,754 cases.

The Brigade said that its firefighters are trained to adapt to varied emergencies and respond with specialist equipment.

Range of incidents includes fires, chemicals and mud

According to London Fire Brigade, 318 people were rescued from fires over the past 18 months.

The largest fire-related rescue occurred in Upper Norwood, where 10 people were rescued from a flat fire.

Firefighters also carried out 463 lift rescues, 229 rescues from locked-in situations, and 389 rescues described as other special service incidents.

These ‘special service’ calls are where there is no fire involved but firefighters deploy equipment to free someone from a dangerous or trapped situation.

Incidents included rescuing a person trapped in a cat flap, freeing window cleaners stuck in a cradle at height, and helping a child with their head stuck in playground equipment.

In Charlton in April 2024, firefighters rescued a man trapped in a trench on a construction site.

Specialist teams assist with water and chemical rescues

London Fire Brigade said it regularly responds to water and chemical emergencies.

It reported 68 rescues from water and mud incidents, often involving coordination with the Brigade’s Fire Rescue Unit and fireboats.

In March 2024, two children were rescued from the River Colne in West Drayton.

Rescues from chemical incidents occurred every other week on average, with 58 total since January 2024.

In August 2024, the Brigade carried out rescues at a swimming pool in Wembley following a chlorine leak.

These rescues often involve collaboration with hazardous material (HAZMAT) teams to deal with risks such as gas leaks and chemical exposure.

Callers urged not to delay due to embarrassment

London Fire Brigade is asking members of the public not to hesitate when calling 999 in an emergency.

Group Commander Shaun Coltress said: “When people think about rescues, they often imagine a firefighter carrying someone out of a burning building. But, as London’s rescue service, we are trained to carry out rescues in a variety of different ways.

“Our fire engines carry dozens of pieces of equipment, and firefighters are trained to adapt their skills to unique scenarios.”

Coltress added: “Sadly, our Control Officers sometimes receive calls where someone has been too embarrassed to call us and their situation has deteriorated for hours, or even days, before they have sought help.

“Whatever the emergency, we will provide advice and assistance without judgment. Most of our rescues are completed in less than an hour, so it’s much better to ask for help than to wait and risk further harm to yourself or others.”

Time taken for rescues varies by incident type

According to London Fire Brigade, rescue times differ depending on the incident.

The shortest incidents last 20–30 minutes and typically include lift entrapments or small animal rescues.

The longest rescues, such as those involving collapsed buildings or flooding, can take between two and three hours.

The average duration of a rescue incident was reported as 43 minutes.

The Brigade said it works to carry out rescues quickly while maintaining safety for both firefighters and the public.

London firefighters rescue 3,627 people across 43 incident types: Summary

London Fire Brigade reported that firefighters rescued 3,627 people between January 2024 and June 2025.

This equates to more than six people rescued per day.

318 people were rescued from fires, with the largest single rescue involving 10 people in Upper Norwood.

1,754 people were rescued after collapsing behind locked doors.

Firefighters responded to 43 different types of rescue incidents across the period.

Lift rescues accounted for 463 of the total incidents.

389 rescues were classified as special service incidents.

229 people were rescued from locked-in scenarios.

68 people were rescued from water and mud incidents.

58 rescues were made during chemical-related emergencies.

London Fire Brigade urged people not to delay calling 999 out of embarrassment.

The average duration of a rescue was 43 minutes.

London Fire Brigade appoints Spencer Sutcliff and Mat Walker as Deputy Commissioners

by Featured NewsPeople

LFB leadership expands with new appointments

London Fire Brigade has announced that Spencer Sutcliff and Mat Walker have been appointed as its new Deputy Commissioners.

According to a statement from London Fire Brigade published on 6 August, the appointments follow the departure of Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley and the earlier appointment of Jonathan Smith as Commissioner.

The organisation confirmed that Sutcliff and Walker will assume responsibility for operational portfolios covering prevention, protection, preparedness and response.

Sutcliff will take up the post from 5 August, while Walker will begin his new role on 1 October.

Sutcliff to lead prevention, protection and policy

Spencer Sutcliff has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner and Operational Director for Prevention, Protection & Policy.

London Fire Brigade stated that Sutcliff has been with the service for 27 years and has served as Assistant Commissioner since October 2022, overseeing the Fire Stations and Central Operations function.

In his most recent role, Sutcliff was responsible for 103 fire stations across London.

The brigade said he led performance improvements during that time and strengthened operational delivery to communities.

Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “Spencer has been with LFB for 27 years and, as well as the knowledge and experience he brings, has demonstrated exceptional leadership during that time, most recently as Assistant Commissioner responsible for LFB’s 103 fire stations.

“During that time he has overseen significant improvements to the Brigade’s performance and the service delivered to communities.”

Walker to lead preparedness and response operations

Mat Walker has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner and Operational Director for Preparedness & Response.

According to London Fire Brigade, Walker currently serves as Deputy Chief Fire Officer at North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and will begin his new role at LFB on 1 October.

Walker has held the Deputy Chief position since September 2022 and previously worked in service assurance and improvement at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

He joined the Fire and Rescue Service in 2003 and has served in South Yorkshire and National Resilience, where he worked as a Command-and-Control advisor.

London Fire Brigade said he contributed to the national response to flooding and other high-profile incidents on the east coast.

Jonathan Smith said: “Mat brings invaluable senior leadership experience from his time serving in North Yorkshire where he has been Deputy Commissioner for the last three years.

“Through that time he has helped to drive improvements across the service, and he brings a wealth of operational expertise across fire, flooding and national resilience.”

Commissioner welcomes both to senior team

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith welcomed both appointees to their new roles within the brigade’s senior leadership team.

He said: “I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Spencer and Mat as the new Deputy Commissioners at London Fire Brigade.

“I have no doubt that both Spencer and Mat will help the Brigade to continue building on the progress that we have made across the organisation in recent years and I look forward to welcoming them both into their new roles.”

The appointments come as Charlie Pugsley, the outgoing Deputy Commissioner, takes on a new position with the Building Safety Regulator.

London Fire Brigade confirmed that Pugsley has been appointed as interim Chief Executive Officer for the regulator.

Wider context and career backgrounds

According to London Fire Brigade, the appointment process follows wider structural changes at the senior level within the service.

Jonathan Smith was confirmed as Commissioner earlier in 2025, and the new Deputy Commissioner roles complete the updated leadership team.

The brigade explained that Sutcliff and Walker will each oversee a defined portfolio covering both strategic and operational responsibilities.

Walker’s previous experience also includes service in National Resilience, where he worked as a Command-and-Control advisor during major incident response operations.

The new roles form part of the service’s broader efforts to maintain organisational continuity and operational readiness across all areas of fire and rescue delivery.

London Fire Brigade appoints Spencer Sutcliff and Mat Walker as Deputy Commissioners: Summary

London Fire Brigade has appointed Spencer Sutcliff and Mat Walker as Deputy Commissioners.

The appointments follow the confirmation of Jonathan Smith as Commissioner and the departure of Charlie Pugsley.

Sutcliff will lead Prevention, Protection & Policy and began his role on 5 August.

Walker will lead Preparedness & Response and joins the brigade on 1 October.

Sutcliff has served as Assistant Commissioner since 2022 and has 27 years of experience in the brigade.

Walker is currently Deputy Chief Fire Officer in North Yorkshire and has served in multiple fire and rescue services since 2003.

Both appointments were confirmed by London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith.

Pugsley has been appointed interim CEO of the Building Safety Regulator.

7/7 commemoration: London Fire Brigade honours victims and responders

by Featured News

Firefighters across London take part in 7/7 memorials

Firefighters across the capital joined memorial events on 7 July 2025 to mark the 20th anniversary of the 7/7 attacks.

Fifty-two people were killed in the 2005 bombings, including London Fire Brigade finance officer Lee Baisden.

A wreath was laid at the 7/7 Memorial in Hyde Park by London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith, who was joined by the Prime Minister, the Mayor of London and emergency service representatives.

Wreaths were also laid at the sites of the four bombings: Aldgate, Edgware Road, King’s Cross and Tavistock Square.

Local firefighters attended each location, standing alongside police, ambulance staff and members of the public.

Firefighters remember the 2005 response

Fifty serving and retired members of the Brigade attended a remembrance service at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Among them was Group Commander Paul Osborne, who in 2005 was stationed at Southwark Fire Station.

His crew was among the first to arrive at Aldgate Station following the explosion.

Paul Osborne said: “When we first arrived at Aldgate Station, we thought it was a surprise training exercise. However, we quickly began to realise the severity of what had happened.

“After entering the tunnel and reaching the carriages, we immediately set to work and followed our training.

“Our equipment for providing first aid at the time was very basic, but we did everything we could to treat people and provide comfort for the injured.

“On that day I saw some of the worst in humanity. However, the dedication, determination and compassion shown by emergency service workers and the public also showed me the best.”

Remembering Lee Baisden

One of the seven people killed in the Aldgate bombing was Lee Baisden, who worked in the Procurement Department of London Fire Brigade.

He was commuting to work when the attack occurred.

His name is commemorated on a plaque in the Brigade’s Memorial Hall at its Lambeth headquarters.

His memory was recognised during the day’s remembrance services.

Commissioner pays tribute to responders

Following the wreath-laying in Hyde Park, London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith reflected on the legacy of the attack.

Jonathan Smith said: “Although it is twenty years on, I know that 7/7 remains fresh in the minds of many, including those firefighters that responded on the day. Today, across the Brigade, we honour the memory of the 52 people who lost their lives, including our colleague, Lee Baisden.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to those firefighters and emergency service workers who responded on the day.

“Their work in incredibly challenging and dangerous conditions is an example of the dedication shown by emergency service workers on a daily basis.”

Public and emergency services unite in tribute

Memorial events were held at multiple locations across London, involving emergency service staff and public attendees.

The 7/7 Memorial in Hyde Park served as the central gathering point, where senior leaders paid their respects.

Additional ceremonies at the bombing sites were attended by firefighters and partner agencies.

Colleagues of the Brigade laid tributes and observed moments of silence throughout the day.

Commemorations formed part of a wider remembrance effort across the United Kingdom.

7/7 commemoration: London Fire Brigade honours victims and responders: Summary

Firefighters joined memorial events for the 20th anniversary of the 7/7 attacks.

Fifty-two people were killed in the 2005 bombings.

One of the victims was London Fire Brigade employee Lee Baisden.

Wreaths were laid at the 7/7 Memorial in Hyde Park and at all four bombing sites.

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith took part in the Hyde Park ceremony.

Fifty current and former Brigade members attended a service at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Group Commander Paul Osborne recalled being among the first to respond at Aldgate Station.

Baisden is commemorated at the Brigade’s Memorial Hall in Lambeth.

Events involved emergency services, public officials and members of the public.

The anniversary was marked across London and the wider UK.

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith begins new leadership

by Breaking NewsPeople

Leadership transition confirmed at London Fire Brigade

Jonathan Smith has formally taken up the role of London Fire Commissioner, following the retirement of Andy Roe.

According to London Fire Brigade, Smith now leads one of the busiest fire and rescue services in the world.

The organisation reported that Roe retired after 23 years in the service, five of which he spent as Commissioner.

Smith joined the Brigade in 2019 after nearly two decades working in fire and rescue services across Norfolk and Hertfordshire.

His appointment follows his tenure as Deputy Commissioner and Director for Operational Preparedness and Response.

Smith’s career path and Grenfell-linked experience

London Fire Brigade stated that Jonathan Smith began his career as a firefighter in 2000 at Norwich City Fire Station.

In 2008, he moved to Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service before joining London Fire Brigade in 2019.

His first role at the Brigade focused on updating procedures in the Control Room in response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The Brigade added that Smith later became Deputy Commissioner, where he managed operational response, training, and specialist capabilities.

He also served as the senior commander during events including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of King Charles III.

Commissioner Smith’s priorities and remarks

Smith said he was honoured to take up the role of London Fire Commissioner.

Jonathan Smith said: “I am incredibly proud to have been confirmed as London’s new Fire Commissioner. It is an honour to have the opportunity to lead our great organisation through its next chapter as we continue to build on the progress we have made.

“Andy Roe’s leadership brought improvements and important reforms, and I’m committed to building on this work. The Brigade is not complacent, and we know there’s still more to do.

“Leading the Brigade, whether working with frontline firefighters, control officers, our fire safety teams and fire investigators or our HQ staff, is a real privilege. Together we can meet the challenges ahead and continue improving how we serve and protect London’s communities.”

Andy Roe’s service and structural changes

London Fire Brigade noted that Andy Roe was appointed Commissioner in 2020 after serving as a firefighter for over two decades.

During his tenure, he led the Brigade through the COVID-19 pandemic, where staff supported ambulance services and PPE production.

Roe also oversaw the implementation of all 29 recommendations from the first phase of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The Brigade said he worked to repair relationships with the Grenfell community and established the UK’s first fire service Professional Standards Unit.

He also introduced a new response capability for Marauding Terrorist Attacks, training every firefighter in London in relevant procedures.

Roe’s statement on retirement

Andy Roe reflected on his time leading the Brigade and expressed confidence in his successor.

Andy Roe KFSM said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead London Fire Brigade over the last five years. I have seen firefighters, control officers and staff from across the Brigade work with determination and dedication to keep London and Londoners safe.

“We have implemented significant changes in how we respond to high rise fires across the capital, and are now better equipped to deal with the unique challenges that protecting this city presents – deploying some of the most advanced firefighting equipment in the world.

“Members of the Brigade have embraced the challenge of improving our service, building meaningful relationships with the communities we serve and creating an organisation of which London can be proud.

“As I retire, I know that my successor as London Fire Commissioner, Jonathan Smith, will continue the work to make that a reality. I wish him the best and hope he enjoys his time as Commissioner as much as I have.”

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith begins new leadership: Summary

Jonathan Smith has been appointed as the new London Fire Commissioner.

He succeeds Andy Roe, who retired after 23 years of service.

Smith joined the Brigade in 2019 as Assistant Commissioner.

His early work focused on reforms following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Smith most recently held the role of Deputy Commissioner.

He was responsible for operational response and specialist capabilities.

He served as senior commander during major state events.

Andy Roe led the Brigade through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Roe implemented all first-phase Grenfell Inquiry recommendations.

He created the UK’s first fire service Professional Standards Unit.

Roe introduced a new capability for Marauding Terrorist Attacks.

He reflected positively on his time as Commissioner.

Smith stated his commitment to ongoing improvement.

London Fire Brigade confirmed both the transition and priorities.