GREATER Manchester is calling for a ban on flammable cladding systems and an overhaul of the planning system to put fire safety at the heart of building design and construction.

The demands form part of Greater Manchester’s evidence submission to the independent review of building regulations and fire safety, set up by the Government following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Under current legislation, the fire and rescue service is not a statutory consultee for planning applications, an oversight that local fire chiefs believe could be rectified to ensure the safety of buildings, residents, and firefighters are not put at risk.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett, who is leading the Greater Manchester High Rise Taskforce, said: “Greater Manchester has taken swift and robust action to address fire safety issues following the Grenfell Tower fire.

“Specialist fire officers have inspected all residential high rises in Greater Manchester and are working with housing providers and building owners to reassure residents.”