Following the tragic incident at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, more stringent policies have been established in collaboration with the GLA and London Fire Brigade. The new guidance outlines how applicants must showcase compliance with London Plan Policies D12 when considering a new development. Recognising that planning officers may lack experience in fire safety, the responsibility lies with the applicant and a fire safety expert to demonstrate compliance with the London Plan fire safety policies, making such a statement a requirement.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate compliance with Policy D12 for each application, submitting supporting information with any forthcoming application. The necessity of this document can vary from Borough to Borough, as some councils do not mandate it for validation purposes, while others do. Below is a list of Boroughs that require FIRE SAFETY STATEMENTS.

Fire Statements encompass all areas outlined within Policy D12 of the London Plan, emphasising that development proposals should achieve the highest standards of fire safety from the outset. Developments must ensure that they:

• Identify suitably positioned unobstructed outside space for fire appliances and evacuation assembly points
• Are designed to incorporate appropriate features that reduce the risk to life and serious injury in the event of a fire, including fire alarm systems and passive and active fire safety measures
• Are constructed to minimise the risk of fire spread
• Provide suitable and convenient means of escape and evacuation strategies for all building users
• Develop a robust evacuation strategy that can be periodically updated and published, instilling confidence in all building users
• Provide suitable access and firefighting equipment appropriate for the development’s size and use.

LIST OF BOROUGH COUNCILS REQUIRING THE FIRE STATEMENT

While some councils may not consider the Fire Statement necessary for Householder applications, others mandate it. Below are the councils that have confirmed the need for D12 Fire Safety Strategy Statements, emphasising that without the statement, your application will be deemed invalid.