We are living in very challenging times right now. In the last issue of our newsletter I argued that the right construction can bring communities together. Delivered poorly and managed or owned by a poorly informed client with the wrong focus construction can become a target. That is why the whole built environment community must collaborate and pursue best practice. Whatever went wrong at the Grenfell Tower that might or might not have led to the shortcomings that the fire brought to light so violently and tragically, as an industry we must respond. If we are to adhere to the principles of best practice and rethinking construction then one thing that must be done is where we see fault we must challenge decisions on procurement, risk and compliance.
What we do as an industry is always judged on the performance of the buildings, structures, roads and facilities we leave behind. They are a solid legacy. If that legacy fails we will be scrutinised. So, isn’t it worth that struggle around the boardroom or the risk of walking away from a project to make sure it is done right, delivered safely and designed to perform and deliver value? That has to be what we focus on. In Wales, some of these principles are captured in the well-being for Wales Future Generations Act. Regardless of politics or views on our environment we must look ahead and build and deliver projects with one thought in mind: is what we are doing fit for the use of our future generations? We need to think differently. We need to start doing it now. Together.