Grenfell memorial could be built almost a decade after tragedy

Plans to build a permanent memorial for those affected by the Grenfell fire have been revealed as the Government remains undecided on what to do with the tower itself.

Construction of the memorial to remember those affected by the Grenfell fire may not begin until late 2026 – almost a decade after the tragedy that killed 72 people in June 2017 – a new report has said.

The Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission said the location, on the current site of the tower, should include a garden, monument and a “sacred” and “peaceful” place for grief and reflection. 

The commission – set up to ensure the Grenfell community were at the heart of decisions on the long-term future of the site – is made up of representatives of the bereaved, survivors and local residents.

Its latest report sets out a series of “urgent” recommendations for a memorial following calls form the community. 

The report – based on the commission’s consultations with the community – said that the permanent space should be designed so the world “can never forget what happened” and must never be allowed to fall into neglect.

According to the commission, views on using parts of the tower itself for the memorial were mixed. It said it would “work through how we can respect the sensitivities on all sides”.

The commission also stated that any parts of the tower not used for a memorial should be “respectfully laid to rest at a second site”.

The tower in North Kensington still stands, covered in a protective wrap with a green heart and the words “forever in our hearts”.

An exact timeline has not been officially decided on but the group said construction may begin from late 2026 depending on a government decision about the tower.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing  and Communities has been approached for comment.

(Picture: Jonathan Brady/PA)