Former HSE director of construction, Peter Baker was picked two years ago to lead the new Building Safety Regulator set up in the wake of the Grenfell disaster.

His decision to retire before the new body, which lies within the Health and Safety Executive, is formally launched next year was a surprise to many involved in consultations.

One told the Enquirer: “I think many are surprised Peter didn’t stay to see through the launch of the new regulator.”

Baker retires after 38 years of service with HSE. Only two weeks ago he launched the process to register all occupied high-rise residential buildings in the country.

In October, the BSR is due to also take over control of the building control profession before formally being launched next April with power to issue Building Assessment Certificates showing how Accountable Persons are managing building safety risks and keeping residents safe.

The new regulator will also oversee work to increase the competence of professionals working in the built environment.

The HSE has now launched the search for his replacement and announced that the safety body’s current Director of Regulation and former Head of Construction Division, Philip White, will take up the role on an interim basis.

A spokesman said Walker’s decision to step down would not impact the roll out of the new regulatory body.

He said: “The processes and plans for the launch of the new regulator are all in place and underway.

“The Building Safety Regulator continues to work closely with government and industry, and we expect the regime to be fully operational by April 2024.”