Grenfell Tower’s fate needs to be decided by families, says MP

Kensington: The MP for Kensington and Bayswater, Joe Powell, is making it clear that any decision about Grenfell Tower should involve the families affected by the tragedy. He believes that the voices of the bereaved and survivors are crucial in this process.

Powell pointed out that while discussions are ongoing, it’s essential that any decision comes with assurances about criminal proceedings. He’s been engaging with the community and wants to ensure that justice is served alongside any decisions made about the tower.

There’s been a lot of back and forth about what to do with Grenfell Tower. Some folks think it should stay as a memorial to remind everyone of the tragedy and the failures that led to it. Others feel that having the tower there is just too painful for those who lost loved ones.

Recently, the management team at the Ministry of Housing shared that no immediate changes to the site are expected before the eighth anniversary of the fire in June. However, concerns are growing about the building’s safety, especially after reports indicated that it could become even more dangerous in bad weather.

Experts have suggested that the tower should be taken down carefully due to long-term safety worries. This is particularly concerning for nearby residents, including a school that’s close to the site.

The Grenfell Next of Kin group, which represents families of many victims, has raised alarms about the building deteriorating quickly. Their leader, Kimia Zabihyan, stressed that the families need more than just empty promises; they want real support and a meaningful memorial for their loved ones.

She expressed frustration over the handling of the situation, saying that the government has wasted a lot of taxpayer money while not truly addressing the needs of the families. The police and Crown Prosecution Service have indicated that charges won’t be announced until late 2026, which adds to the families’ distress.

In September 2024, a report with recommendations to prevent future disasters was published, but for many, the focus remains on getting justice and ensuring that the memories of their loved ones are honored properly.