Afterword

168. GMFRS has agreed proposals to develop a structure and supporting mechanisms to lead on the coordination of its response to identifed risks and learning in respect of the built environment. The emerging capability will seek to build on the existing coordinated and collaborative approach by GMFRS, to implement further measures to support the coordination, analysis and routes for mitigation of signifcant learning identifed.

169. In September 2019, the Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire established a new Protection Board, which aims to strengthen protection activities across FRSs in England and increase the pace of inspection activity across HRRBs. The Protection Board has recommended MHCLG provide funding distributed to each FRS to support this work.

170. It is clear that the current shortcomings in the built environment represent a signifcant risk to GMFRS and therefore also GMCA. The GMFRS Corporate Risk Register identifes that GMFRS may not be able to effectively infuence the legislative and policy context in which it operates utilising current resources and structures. The risk register also identifes that there are opportunities to develop best practice advice and guidance to enhance safety in residential buildings which will better equip GMFRS to ensure the safety of the public and frefghters.

171. GMFRS’s large scale ‘Built Environment Project’ will encompass all aspects of work related to the built environment to coordinate and support these improvements within Greater Manchester.

172. This coordinated approach will:

Ensure GMFRS’s response to identifed risks and learning in respect of the built environment; Support the analysis and routes for mitigation of the signifcant learning identifed through, principally the GTI, The Cube and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) reports; Enhance understanding of the current built environment risk across all areas of Greater Manchester and GMFRS; Identify if GMFRS are prepared to manage that risk; Put structures in place to monitor current and future risks; Develop assurance processes to respond to built environment risk; Ensure monitoring of built environment risk is effective; Ensure increased awareness of the built environment is provided to all our staff; Ensure personnel are prepared to respond to risk; Work effectively with our partners to reduce risk; Record and report to stakeholders on progression of any risk mitigation activity.