The Welsh Government has today announced the banning on the use of combustible cladding on high rise buildings as from 13 January 2020. This will apply to all new residential buildings (flats, student accommodation and care homes) and hospitals that are over 18m high. The ban covers the entire height of the building and will apply to the complete wall assembly and certain attachments to the external wall including balconies and solar panels.  The ban will also apply to existing buildings where relevant building work is being carried out that falls within the scope of the Building Regulations, unless the building works have started on-site or an initial notice, building notice or full plans have been deposited and work has started on site within a period of 8 weeks.

The Welsh Housing Minister, Julie James, will publish a White Paper in 2020 setting out more details, FIS is working to avoid the repeat of problems that have impacted members in England.  To view the announcement click here.