Former Grenfell Cost-Cutter Named Senior Housing Director Amid Intense Scrutiny
Survivors and bereaved relatives have fiercely condemned the hiring of a director responsible for overseeing cost-cutting measures at Grenfell Tower in a senior role within the council housing department.
Laura Johnson, who served as director of housing at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea during the construction of Grenfell Tower, was nominated for the permanent position of chief director of development and property at the Barnet Group, overseeing the management of roughly 13,000 council residences in the area.
An independent inquiry into the tragedy highlighted how Johnson advocated for reduced costs during the tower's refurbishment, leading to the substitution of fire-resistant metal cladding with combustible, plastic-filled panels in order to meet a tighter budget.
Investigations also revealed that she delayed the deployment of self-closing fire barriers on tower exits due to financial and logistical constraints, contrary to warnings issued by the London fire brigade that their omission compromised viable evacuation routes.
Ed Daffarn, who survived the stairwell collapse by fleeing to the sixteenth floor, described the arrangement as “an absolutely outrageous decision.”
"The fact that we, as bereaved survivors, haven’t received any justice nearly nine years since the fire, and yet those named in the inquiry continue to hold senior roles in the social housing sector with substantial salaries and health and safety responsibilities, feels profoundly disrespectful.”
"If I was a resident in a Barnet council home, I’d be absolutely petrified.”
Grenfell survivor Ed Daffern. Photograph: Martin Godwin/The Guardian
Johnson previously held an interim role at the Barnet Group before being appointed permanently in August with a remuneration package valued at £157,078.
A representative for the Barnet Group stated that Ms. Johnson was the “strongest candidate” after a competitive, public recruitment process that assessed her professional background, references, qualifications, and suitability.
“The group was aware of the Grenfell inquiry findings and carefully considered them throughout the recruitment stage,” said a spokesperson. “We also valued Ms. Johnson’s proven professional experience, subsequent performance reviews, and overall suitability for the position.”
“After a robust and publicly advertised recruitment process, we determined that she was the strongest candidate and legally eligible to hold the position.”
Grenfell United, the organization representing the bereaved, urged Barnet Group to reconsider the appointment, citing “a staggering disregard for the inquiry’s findings.”
“She should not be in a position of power,” Daffarn said. “No individual implicated in the Grenfell inquiry should remain in such a role while the police investigation continues.”
The Metropolitan Police noted they are seeking charges against 57 individuals and 20 companies in relation to the fire, with the Crown Prosecution Service planning to conclude decisions on charges by June 2027, the tenth anniversary of the disaster.
“Although authorities have not publicly identified those names, it is extraordinary that Barnet council granted this permanent appointment before the criminal justice process arising from Grenfell concludes,” Grenfell United commented.
A spokesperson for the Barnet Group confirmed they would not discuss staff matters involving prior employment unrelated to current duties.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all those affected by the tragic Grenfell Tower fire. The safety and wellbeing of our residents is our top priority.”
