Nine years after the Grenfell Tower fire, survivors and bereaved families gathered on Sunday to mark what is expected to be the final anniversary before the tower is completely demolished. The fire on June 14, 2017, claimed 72 lives, caused by an electrical fault in a fourth-floor flat that spread rapidly due to flammable cladding.
Community Remembers and Demands Justice
This year's gathering comes after police and prosecutors announced last month that up to 20 companies and 57 individuals could face criminal charges over the blaze. The Metropolitan Police stated that decisions on charges will be made before the 10th anniversary next year. Potential offences include corporate gross negligence manslaughter, fraud, health and safety breaches, and misconduct in public office.
Grenfell survivor Edward Daffarn described the wait for justice as "torturous," adding, "Justice delayed is justice denied." A church service was held Sunday afternoon, followed by a silent walk in west London and a reading of the names of the 72 victims.
Inquiry Findings and Demolition
A public inquiry concluded the fire was avoidable, blaming "decades of failure" by governments and the building industry. The final report in 2024 found victims were "badly failed" through incompetence, dishonesty, and greed. Inquiry chairman Sir Martin Moore-Bick condemned the "deliberate and sustained" manipulation of fire safety testing.
The demolition process began in September last year and is expected to take about two years. Some bereaved and survivors criticized the government's decision, feeling their views were ignored. The Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission is consulting on a permanent memorial, with design team Freehaus chosen to create it alongside the community.
A government spokesperson said: "As we approach the ninth anniversary, our thoughts are with the bereaved, survivors, and all affected. We remember the 72 people who lost their lives and are committed to ensuring this never happens again."
