Since the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, the process for obtaining approval for high-risk buildings (HRBs)—defined as buildings at least 18 meters tall or having at least seven storeys with at least two residential units—has become significantly more stringent. Gateway 1 is the first of three mandatory "stop-points" in the lifecycle of a high-risk building. It occurs at the planning stage and is designed to ensure that fire safety is considered before planning permission is even granted. Unlike traditional planning applications, Gateway 1 requires the submission of a "Fire Statement," which is reviewed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) acting as a statutory consultee. Preparing this application requires a specialized blend of architectural design, fire engineering, and regulatory knowledge.

The Components of a Robust Fire Statement

The heart of the Gateway 1 application is the Fire Statement. This is a standardized form that must be completed by a "competent person"—typically a fire engineer or a highly trained lead designer. The statement must provide technical details on the building’s construction, the intended use of the units, and the fire safety strategy. One of the most critical sections involves the provision of fire appliance access. You must demonstrate that the surrounding roads can support the weight of heavy high-reach appliances and that there is sufficient "perimeter access" for firefighters to reach the building from multiple angles. This requires detailed site plans that show turning circles, road widths, and the distance from the nearest hydrant.

Furthermore, the Fire Statement must address the "internal" fire safety strategy at a high level. While it does not require a full fire strategy report (which comes at Gateway 2), it must outline how fire-fighting shafts will be distributed and where dry or wet risers will be located. It also requires information on the proposed evacuation strategy—for example, whether the building will operate on a "stay put" or "simultaneous evacuation" policy. Preparing these documents requires a deep understanding of Approved Document B and the specific requirements of the Building Safety Regulator. Professionals often find that completing a housekeeping course or specialized safety management training is beneficial for understanding the long-term maintenance implications of these fire safety systems once the building is occupied.

Technical Documentation and Site Layout Planning

Beyond the Fire Statement form itself, the application must be supported by a suite of technical drawings. These drawings must clearly illustrate the "Fire Spread" risks. This includes demonstrating that the building is set back sufficiently from neighboring properties to prevent fire from jumping between structures. You must also account for "external wall" materials, ensuring that the cladding and insulation systems specified at the planning stage meet the non-combustibility requirements for high-rise buildings. Any balconies or decorative features must also be scrutinized for their potential to contribute to vertical fire spread.

Water supply for firefighting is another major technical hurdle. The application must identify the location of existing fire hydrants and, if the pressure is insufficient, propose the installation of new hydrants or on-site water storage tanks. This requires early engagement with local water authorities and the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS). The documentation must prove that there is a guaranteed flow rate capable of supporting multiple fire hoses simultaneously. This level of technical coordination ensures that the building is not only safe for residents but also provides a defensible environment for emergency responders. Managers overseeing these site-wide strategies must have a high level of organizational skill, often refined through professional development like a housekeeping course or facilities management training, to ensure that these safety features remain accessible and functional throughout the building's life.

Coordination with the HSE and Local Planning Authorities

The relationship between the developer, the LPA, and the HSE is the defining characteristic of Gateway 1. Once the application is submitted, the HSE has 21 days to provide its response. They will look for any "red flags" that could compromise safety, such as inadequate travel distances to a protected stairway or a lack of clear access for aerial ladder platforms. If the HSE requests more information, the developer must respond promptly with revised drawings or technical justifications. It is often recommended to engage in "pre-application" discussions with the HSE to iron out potential issues before the formal submission, as this can significantly reduce the risk of a negative response.

Successful navigation of Gateway 1 requires a multi-disciplinary team. Architects, fire engineers, and planning consultants must work in lockstep to ensure that the fire statement aligns perfectly with the site plans and elevations. Discrepancies between the Fire Statement and the architectural drawings are a common reason for application delays. For example, if the Fire Statement claims there are two protected stairwells but the floor plans only show one, the HSE will likely object. Ensuring this level of administrative and technical accuracy is a hallmark of professional project management. Individuals who have invested in foundational training, such as a housekeeping course, often have a better eye for the practical "on-the-ground" details that prevent these types of regulatory oversights.

Conclusion: Gateway 1 as a Foundation for Safety

In conclusion, preparing a Building Control Approval application for Gateway 1 is an exercise in proactive risk management. By forcing fire safety to the front of the planning process, the Building Safety Act ensures that the high-rise buildings of the future are designed with the highest standards of occupant protection. Developers and designers must treat the Fire Statement not as a bureaucratic hurdle, but as a vital design tool. Those who master the complexities of Gateway 1 will find that the subsequent stages—Gateway 2 (pre-construction) and Gateway 3 (pre-occupation)—are much easier to navigate, as the fundamental safety architecture of the building has already been validated by the regulator.