Building Control is moving faster in 2026
Building Control is changing fast in 2026. For developers, housing providers, contractors and dutyholders, the latest Building Safety Regulator data gives a clearer picture of what is working and where projects are still getting stuck.
The BSR’s latest building control approval data shows that Gateway 2 performance is improving. Across all categories, 368 Gateway 2 decisions were made in the 12 weeks to 28 June 2026, with an overall approval rate of 77%. This is a positive sign for the sector, especially after months of concern about delays, uncertainty and complex submission requirements.
Why Building Control data matters
Building Control is not just a box to tick. It is now central to how higher-risk buildings move from design to construction. Under the current regime, applicants must secure building control approval from the BSR before starting work on new higher-risk buildings, major work to existing higher-risk buildings, or work that changes whether a building is classed as higher risk.
This makes the quality of the application critical. Poor drawings, missing fire safety details, weak structural evidence or unclear change control plans can slow a project down. In simple terms, the BSR is not just asking whether a project looks good on paper. It wants proof that the design can meet the Building Regulations before work begins.
Trends across the sector
The latest BSR data also shows that London remains a major pressure point. Around 57% of all Gateway 2 decisions across all categories related to London cases. That reflects the scale of high-rise development and remediation work in the capital, but it also shows why early planning matters so much.
For new build and conversion schemes, recent approvals represented 6,544 residential units. This suggests that the system is beginning to move more steadily, even if complex cases still need careful handling. The BSR has also said its strategic plan includes targets to improve decision times, including work on remediation and new-build Gateway 2 applications.
How to improve submissions
Good Building Control applications need clear evidence from the start. The Construction Leadership Council has published guidance to help applicants prepare stronger Gateway 2 submissions for higher-risk buildings. The guidance focuses on giving the BSR the right information at validation stage, so applications are less likely to face avoidable delays.
For project teams, this means getting fire safety, structural, design, construction and change control information aligned before submission. It also means making sure the golden thread is not treated as an afterthought.
Building Control skills are in demand
As Building Control becomes more detailed, employers need people who understand compliance, resident safety and the Building Safety Act. Roles such as Building Safety Manager, Fire Safety Manager, Building Control Surveyor and Compliance Lead are becoming more important across housing, construction and local government.
Metropolitan Thames Valley is currently recruiting for a Building Safety Manager in Nottingham, with a salary of £57,471 to £60,496. The role focuses on building safety, compliance and maintaining trust with residents.
For professionals who understand Building Control and want to work in a growing safety-led field, this is a strong time to explore new opportunities on BuildingSafetyJobs.com.
