The government has
reaffirmed its commitment to putting bereaved families and the community at the
heart of deciding what happens to the future of the Grenfell Tower site.
A set of written
principles, agreed with the community and signed by government and
Kensington and Chelsea council, will guide the way future decisions are made.
The common
assumption is that the decision-making process on the future of the site will
lead towards agreement on a fitting memorial to remember those who lost their
lives.
Kensington and
Chelsea council will ensure that work on the future of the site is taken
forward alongside work on the improvements to the Lancaster West estate, so
that the area becomes a place where the tragedy can be remembered and the local
community thrives.
Shahin Sadafi, Chair
of Grenfell United, said: "The future of Grenfell Tower site has been a
major source of anxiety for the bereaved, survivors and local community not
least because it is the final resting place of the loved ones we lost in the
fire.
"We are pleased
that 8 months on from the fire we finally have agreement that the bereaved,
survivors and community will be at the heart of deciding the legacy of the
site. We hope working together to create a fitting memorial will be part of a
healing process for everyone affected.
"The government
and Kensington and Chelsea council have treated this issue with dignity and
respect. We can only hope the government applies the same seriousness to our
need for truth and justice at the Inquiry, this includes listening to our
requests for changes to ensure a thorough Inquiry.
"Our door will
always be open for genuine cooperation on substantive issues."
Secretary of State
for Housing, Sajid Javid said: "I am pleased that after hearing the
concerns raised by the community, the government and Kensington and Chelsea
council have confirmed there are no existing plans for the site on which the
Tower stands.
"I have always
been clear that only by first listening to the community can we begin to
rebuild their trust. This public commitment is a demonstration of us being true
to that word and I am pleased we have been able to agree a way forward."
Councillor Elizabeth
Campbell, Leader of Kensington and Chelsea council, said: "Since day one
of my leadership I have been clear – the council will listen every step of the
way to the survivors, the bereaved, and the wider community and assist in any
way it can to ensure that a lasting memorial is put in place."
