Professor Sergio Cavalaro has been appointed to a new government advisory role, supporting building safety reform, regulatory improvements and construction productivity.
The three-year appointment follows a recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and brings independent construction expertise into the government’s wider scientific advisory network.
Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University, will provide construction, engineering and scientific advice on building safety, quality, resilience and productivity.
The appointment follows a recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and forms part of the government’s wider scientific advisory network.
Supporting regulatory reform
The full-time role will connect government, regulators, industry, professional bodies, academia and residents, supporting outstanding Inquiry recommendations and regulatory reform.
Cavalaro will work alongside Interim Chief Construction Adviser Thouria Istephan during a month-long handover.
His experience includes structural evaluations of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) and collaborative initiatives advancing modern methods of construction, materials, remediation and quality control.
Cavalaro said:
“I look forward to providing independent advice and constructive challenge, while contributing to cross-government priorities through the network of Chief Scientific Advisers.”
Building Safety Levy takes effect
The appointment coincides with the introduction of the Building Safety Levy on 01 October 2026.
Applying to eligible new residential developments and purpose-built student accommodation, the levy is expected to raise approximately £3.4bn over ten years.
Funding will support building safety remediation, including the removal of dangerous cladding, while reducing the financial burden on leaseholders and taxpayers.
