The architect responsible for the original proposals to put cladding on Grenfell Tower has told the inquiry it believed the regulatory system for buildings had been unfit for purpose for many years before 2017’s tragedy.

In an opening statement to the second part of the Grenfell Inquiry, Studio E’s barrister said the practice had been “truly devastated” by the fire at the west London tower block, which claimed 72 lives, and that it thoroughly supported the aims of the wide-ranging investigation.

Prashant Popat said three current members of staff at the Southwark-based practice and one former colleague would give evidence to the inquiry’s second phase, and were keen to explore the firm’s role and whether doing anything differently could have resulted in a different outcome.

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