Behind the Façade – new documentary funded by Vivalda Group heralds ‘era of responsibility’ for the UK cladding industry

‘Behind the Façade’ premiered at UK Construction Week 2021

A groundbreaking new film that explores the UK construction industry’s response to the Grenfell Fire tragedy.

Produced by Vivalda Group and award-winning filmmaker Hamlett Films, the 20-minute documentary is entitled ‘Behind the Façade’ and includes contributions from architects, specialist contractors, suppliers and those personally affected by the cladding crisis. The film seeks to encourage an honest debate within the construction industry about critical issues such as safety, responsibility and quality as the new Building Safety Bill progresses through the House of Commons.

• Key industry figures taking part on the film include:
• John Barnes: Managing director, Roofdec Limited
• David Frise : CEO, Building Engineering Services Association
• Peter Johnson: Chairman, Vivalda Group plc
• Tim O’Callaghan: Director, Nimtim Architects

Commenting on the film, the chairman of Vivalda Group Peter Johnson, said: “As founder of Vivalda, I’ve been in the cladding sector for over 40 years and was absolutely shocked by the events of Grenfell and the revelations of the subsequent enquiries. I hope this film in some small way helps the industry to take stock and re-evaluate its attitude to safety, pricing and responsibility. We need to encourage a genuine culture change within the industry and the new safety bill is a significant opportunity to make a real difference.

“I’d like to thank all of the people who have contributed to our film and hope that Behind the Façade acts in some way as a catalyst for positive change. This is a conversation the industry needs to have.”