News ACANews SPRING 2024
ACA launches the principaldesigner.uk register for the industry
Planning update conference from page 18
The Association of Consultant Architects has launched the Building Safety Act Principal Designer Register Following the Grenfell Tower fire on 14th June 2017 where 72 people tragically lost their lives, and the subsequent public inquiry, the Government finally updated the Building Safety Regulations on 1st October 2023, requiring a ‘Principal Designer’ on all buildings. However, to create potential confusion, it gave the role the same name – ‘Principal Designer’ – as already exists for the role required under the CDM Regulations, despite these being completely different roles with different responsibilities. Here at the ACA, we have reviewed and debated the competencies required to undertake the Building Safety Act (BSA) Principal Designer role and are in firm agreement that the Architect is best placed to carry out the role. The reason being is that the Principal Designer role should be carried out by the designer in control of the design phase of the project and this is therefore inherently suited for the Architect to perform. It also important to note that with increased responsibility comes increased risk for the Architect in question and our views are these should be reflected in i) the agreed
excellence in practice
fee proposal and ii) ensuring Architects are fully protected within their Professional Indemnity Insurance. We are also aware of Clients requesting evidence that their Architect managing their project has the required qualifications and competencies to fulfil the BSA Principal Designer Role and in support of this, we are launching the ACA BSA Principal Designer Register. The register allows Architects to self certify themselves as having the experience and skills to take on the role. The registration form is easy and simple to complete with Architects being directed to a content hub where they can download a certificate and logo to host on their own website as well as review guidance and industry developments. Importantly, Clients will be able to search the register by practice name and post code. To register or to find a registered Principal Designer go to
Planning under Labour page 33
Interfaith understanding through design – Daniel Leon page 34
www.principaldesigner.uk SEE seminar report on page 12
www.acarchitects.co.uk