As of late April 2025 in the UK, Gateway 2 applications for higher-risk buildings (HRBs) continue to experience substantial delays and high rejection rates (around 75%), primarily due to incomplete or incorrect submissions lacking crucial safety details. This is significantly impacting project timelines and costs, prompting industry calls for process reviews and clearer guidance from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). While the BSR is implementing measures to address the backlog and improve processing, the situation remains a major concern for developers and is potentially hindering housing delivery targets.
Getting submissions right, first time, can have a significant impact on project outcomes and timelines.
What is Gateway 2?
Gateway 2 is one of the three “gateways” introduced under the UK’s Building Safety Act 2022 – a set of reforms aimed at improving building safety, particularly for HRBs. This phase occurs before construction begins, and approval must be granted by the BSR
Gateway 2 is a ‘hard stop’ – you cannot begin construction until the design is proven to be compliant with building safety requirements.
What Gateway 2 Means for You
For Architects:
- You must demonstrate that your detailed design meets building regs and fire safety standards up front – with designs completed to RIBA Stage 4.
- Full plans must be submitted and approved by the BSR.
- Late-stage design changes become more difficult and risk significant delays.
For Contractors:
- You’ll need to ensure that construction follows the approved plans exactly – any deviation could trigger a re-approval process.
- More scrutiny is placed on materials, competency, and construction methods.
- Coordination with design teams becomes even more critical.
Key Challenges of Gateway 2
- Delays: If the design isn’t 100% compliant, approval may be refused, pushing back your build timeline.
- Increased Documentation: Gateway 2 submissions must include detailed evidence of compliance with the functional requirements of the UK Building Regulations – everything from product certifications to fire safety strategies and evidence of duty holder competence.
- Accountability: The principal designer and principal contractor, respectively, are legally accountable for producing detailed plans which comply with the functional requirements, and building to those plans.
How Benx Can Help
At Benx, we can support you through Gateway 2 process for your façade specifications. We provide:
🔍 Design collaboration: Our technical team can support your façade design process to help ensure your submission includes all relevant façade system details.
📄 Documentation Packs: We provide all safety and performance data and certifications to help streamline your specification process.
🛠️ Certified Systems: Choose from our range of Agrément-certified EWI and Safewall® rainscreen facade systems.
📞 One-stop Support: From initial spec through to on-site delivery and build, our team helps ensure smooth project delivery.
Need Help Preparing for Gateway 2?
We’re already working with architects, developers, and contractors across the UK to help them get it right the first time. Speak to our technical team to make sure your project stays on track.