The government has been accused of “ignoring” the voices of people who lost family in the Grenfell Tower tragedy in its decision to demolish the building.
Grenfell United, which represents some bereaved and survivors, criticised the government’s conduct as “disgraceful and unforgiveable”.
The news was announced in a meeting attended by deputy prime minister Angela Rayner on Wednesday night.
Grenfell United said: “Angela Rayner could not give a reason for her decision to demolish the tower.
“She refused to confirm how many bereaved and survivors had been spoken to in the recent, short four-week consultation.
“But judging from the room alone – the vast majority of whom were bereaved – no one supported her decision. But she claims her decision is based on our views.”
“(The) meeting showed just how upset bereaved and survivors are about not having their views heard or considered in this decision.
“Ignoring the voices of bereaved on the future of our loved ones’ gravesite is disgraceful and unforgiveable.”
The government said the decision is a “deeply personal matter” for people affected by the tragedy and that Ms Rayner is “committed to keeping their voice at the heart of this”.
It has been almost eight years since 72 people died in the Grenfell Tower disaster, the UK’s deadliest residential fire since the Second World War.
There have been discussions over the years about how best to commemorate the tragedy for the decades to come.
Engineering experts have said that while the tower remains stable, and it is safe for people to live, work and study nearby, its condition will worsen over time and there is no realistic prospect of bringing it back into use.
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