Government Wins Landmark Case Against Railway Pension Fund Freeholder Over Building Safety

Assurance for Vista Tower Residents

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Michael Gove, emphasized the importance of this ruling for leaseholders who have endured prolonged uncertainty. "This decision is a victory for leaseholders in Vista Tower and across the country. It is unacceptable that Railpen, managing £34bn in assets, has left residents in limbo," Gove stated. "This should serve as a warning to all building owners: we will not hesitate to take legal action to ensure the safety of residents."

Leaseholders’ Relief and Hope

Vista Tower leaseholder Sophie Bichener expressed her relief at the court's decision. "This remediation order gives us the reassurance we deserve after years of difficulty. We hope our involvement in this case brings hope to others waiting for their homes to be made safe," she said, thanking the Secretary of State for his support.

Broader Implications and Future Actions

Following the legal action initiated in October 2022, Grey GR began work on Vista Tower in January 2024. The court's Remediation Order now sets a precise deadline for completion, with potential sanctions for non-compliance.

The Government is pursuing similar actions on five other Grey GR buildings, including The Chocolate Box in Bournemouth, where remediation works have commenced. Additionally, four remediation orders have already been secured against freeholder Wallace Estates, benefiting approximately 400 leaseholders.

Empowering Authorities to Enforce Safety

Under the Building Safety Act, councils, fire and rescue services, and the Building Safety Regulator are empowered to enforce compliance, ensuring building owners fulfill their responsibilities to leaseholders.

This landmark case underscores the Government's commitment to ensuring safe living conditions for all residents and holding freeholders accountable for necessary building safety measures.