Kensington and Chelsea Council referred for corporate manslaughter charges
Referral to Crown Prosecution Service involves 20 firms and 54 individuals connected to the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire.
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Kensington and Chelsea Council has been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for corporate manslaughter in connection with the Grenfell Tower fire. This referral is part of a wider investigation involving 20 firms and 54 individuals linked to the tragedy that claimed the lives of 72 people on 14 June 2017.
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In addition to corporate manslaughter, the council has also been referred to the CPS for alleged breaches under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Regulatory Reform (fire safety) Order 2005. Corporate manslaughter carries a maximum fine of £20 million, while violations of health and safety or fire safety legislation can result in unlimited fines and prison sentences of up to two years.
The CPS will now examine the evidence to determine whether to bring charges against the council for these offences. A decision is anticipated before June 2026, marking the tenth anniversary of the fire.
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Grenfell United, a group representing survivors and bereaved families, stated that for nine years, no one has been held criminally accountable for the deaths. A spokesperson for the group urged the CPS to proceed without further delay, stating, "Our families have waited long enough." They expressed a desire for those responsible to face justice and for convictions to demonstrate that there are consequences for such events.
No family should have to fight this hard, for this long, for justice.
Grenfell United spokesperson
Emma Dent-Coad, former Labour MP for Kensington at the time of the fire, noted the relief within the Grenfell community regarding this stage of criminal proceedings against Kensington and Chelsea Council. She acknowledged the further waiting period until a charging decision is made, describing it as "hugely painful for those affected." Dent-Coad also commented on the council leader's statements, suggesting that evidence of a change of heart from the council is missing. She indicated that while a corporate manslaughter conviction would be significant, many hope for "gross negligence manslaughter" charges, which could lead to individual jail sentences.
Council Response
Councillor Elizabeth Campbell, Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council, acknowledged the referral as a significant moment for all affected by the Grenfell fire. She reiterated the council's thoughts for the victims and expressed hope that the legal process would provide answers. Campbell stated that the council has accepted its failings and remains committed to candour, openness, and accountability, focusing on fulfilling commitments made following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. She confirmed the council's full cooperation with the Metropolitan Police investigation and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
What Happens Next
The Crown Prosecution Service will now review the evidence submitted by the Metropolitan Police. They will decide whether to bring charges of corporate manslaughter, gross negligence manslaughter, health and safety offences, fraud, and misconduct in public office against the council, firms, and individuals. A decision is expected before June 2026.
Questions this report answers
+Why has Kensington and Chelsea Council been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service?
Kensington and Chelsea Council has been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service for corporate manslaughter in relation to the Grenfell Tower fire. The referral also includes alleged breaches of health and safety and fire safety regulations.
+How many people and firms are involved in the referral?
The referral to the Crown Prosecution Service includes 20 firms and 54 individuals connected to the Grenfell Tower fire. These entities are being reviewed for potential charges including corporate manslaughter and health and safety offences.
+When will a decision on charges be made?
The Crown Prosecution Service is expected to decide on possible charges before the ten-year anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire, which falls in June 2026. This decision will follow a review of the evidence.
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