Macpherson slams ‘flouted processes’ after illegal building collapse kills five

The Council for the Built Environment (CBE) has revealed that substandard and low-quality materials were used in the construction of a church building that collapsed, claiming the lives of five people.

The council released its preliminary investigation findings on Wednesday, confirming that the multi-storey construction was unlawful and conducted without any of the required authorisations.

READ: Minister reveals fatal Verulam building collapse lacked approved plans and permits

The incident occurred last Friday when the four-storey building—which was still under construction—collapsed while workers were pouring wet cement on the top level. Reports indicate that the structure was intended to be a Hindu temple.

During a media briefing on Wednesday, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson communicated the outcomes of the initial probe, stating it is clearthat developers flouted numerous safety standards and legal processes.

“Early visual assessments have also raised serious concerns regarding the quality of construction, including indications of misaligned structural elements and potentially substandard materials. Rescue personnel further reported that the concrete encountered on site appeared friable, which will require further forensic testing as part of the investigation," said Macpherson.