The government says the process to dismantle Grenfell Tower will take two years and be carried out sensitively, but the decision has divided survivors and bereaved families.
The government has confirmed that Grenfell Tower will be taken down, nearly eight years after the fire that claimed 72 lives. The process, expected to take around two years, will be carried out sensitively, with no changes to the building before the disaster’s eighth anniversary in June, the BBC reported.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among survivors, bereaved families, and the local community. While some believe the 24-storey tower should remain as a permanent reminder of the 2017 tragedy, others say its presence is a painful daily reminder of loss and want it replaced with a memorial.
A government spokesperson acknowledged the divided opinions, stating: “It is clear from conversations that this remains a sacred site. However, there is no unanimous consensus on its future.”
Structural Concerns Prompt Decision
The move follows expert advice that Grenfell Tower is significantly damaged and that its condition will continue to deteriorate despite reinforcement measures. A 2020 report highlighted how fire damage to the upper floors had worsened due to exposure to the elements.
Engineers have advised that it is not feasible to retain parts of the structure within a permanent memorial, and the government has ruled out keeping the lower levels intact, saying it would be unfair to those with connections to flats that would be removed.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said partial dismantling would be “deeply upsetting” for survivors and concluded that it “would not be fair” to keep some floors while removing others.
What Happens Next?
The government will appoint a specialist contractor in the coming months to develop a detailed deconstruction plan. The work will be carried out gradually, floor by floor, behind the existing wrapping to minimise contamination risks from dust and debris.
The temporary hoarding surrounding the site, which has remained in place for over seven years, will stay in place during the process. Materials from the site, including parts of the tower, will be preserved for potential inclusion in a future memorial, should the community wish.
Justice and Accountability
Some survivors and bereaved families have argued that the tower should remain until justice is served. The Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) have said that no charges related to the fire will be announced before late 2026.
The future memorial is still being planned, with ongoing discussions about how best to honour those who lost their lives while supporting the needs of the community.
