The rapid Building Safety Regulator sign-off means contractor HG Construction can now get underway on the Hackney project at a long-vacant builders’ yard overlooking Regent’s Canal.

The Meanwhile Group’s Morro brand, working with development manager Pareto Projects and principal designer Veretec, has now secured both planning consent and Gateway 2 approval in the same calendar year.

The double milestone comes as many projects continue to struggle for timely approval under the still-bedding-in new Building Safety Act regime.

Design teams engaged early with the Local Fire Authority and the regulator to prove compliance across fire strategy, structure, façades, building services and sustainability, helping to strip risk out of the process and keep reviews on track.

Adam Brockley, founder and group chief development officer at Meanwhile, said: “Securing Gateway 2 approval for Kingsland Road in record time is a significant moment of confidence for investors and developers, particularly in the build-to-rent sector, that want to continue to deliver new housing in the UK.

“Strong collaboration and communication between all parties – particularly with our contact Deborah Bashton at the Building Safety Regulator – and quality processes have been instrumental to reaching this milestone, which demonstrates a clear benchmark for navigating Gateway 2.”

Kuli Bajwa, managing director of Pareto Projects, said: “When the new Gateway regime was introduced, the industry faced significant delays, but it’s clear the BSR has now adopted a more responsive and collaborative approach, and we feel we are finally being heard.

“This milestone shows what’s possible when everyone works with clarity, discipline and a shared commitment to safety and quality.”

The Kingsland Road scheme will replace the disused yard with co-living rooms, new workspace and resident amenities including a gym and rooftop terrace, all within 300 metres of Haggerston Overground station.