EDITOR’ S CHOICE
ALUPROF SUPPORT ON GATEWAY 2 COMPLIANCE
BY WOJCIECH BROŻYNA- MD ALUPROF UK
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until the Building Safety Regulator( BSR) has reviewed and approved a detailed building control application. This application must demonstrate that the building’ s design meets all relevant Building Regulations and properly considers fire safety and structural safety risks.
The building control application submitted at the Gateway 2 stage is much more thorough than traditional applications. It requires developers to submit full design documentation, including plans, calculations, and specifications, along with a fire and emergency file and evidence that competent professionals are overseeing the project. Developers must also show how they will maintain the‘ Golden Thread’ which is a clear, up-to-date record of safety information applicable throughout the building’ s life cycle. The application must also set out how any design changes during construction will be managed and reported to the regulator.
The introduction of Gateway 2 is part of a wider push to improve building safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, ensuring safety is prioritised from the very start of construction. By requiring a‘ stop / go’ decision point before work can begin, Gateway 2 aims to prevent unsafe designs from progressing into construction, increasing accountability and ensuring higher standards across the industry. This stricter process is designed to reduce safety risks during both construction and the eventual occupation of the building.
Gateway 3 – Post-Construction: A final check before the building is occupied.
Aluprof UK has demonstrated a strong commitment to aligning with the Building Safety Act’ s requirements, particularly concerning Gateway 2 approvals. Its broad range of high performance façade solutions, all 3rd party tested to the relevant standards makes Aluprof the ideal partner. In addition their major projects team collaborates closely with specialist façade contractors to ensure that all necessary supporting documentation and compliance measures are meticulously prepared for submission to the Building Safety Regulator( BSR). This proactive approach is essential, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the BSR, such as delays in processing Gateway 2 applications due to an outsourced delivery model and a shortage of in-house technical expertise.
Aluprof’ s vertical integration benefits specifiers by ensuring consistent product quality, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced technical support. With in-house system design, manufacturing, and testing, Aluprof delivers high-performance aluminium systems that meet stringent UK and EU building regulations, including Gateway 2 requirements under the Building Safety Act. This integrated approach allows for greater customisation, faster lead times, and improved cost efficiency, giving specifiers confidence in project timelines and compliance. Additionally, direct collaboration with Aluprof’ s experts ensures tailored solutions that align with architectural intent while enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency.
Gateway 2 is part of a staged process, the three gateways in the new system are:
Gateway 1 – Pre-Planning: Considering safety risks at the planning application stage.
Gateway 2 – Pre-Construction: Ensuring the design is safe before building starts.( this is where Gateway 2 compliance applies).
ARCHETECH- PAGE 18