Laura Johnson, the former director of housing at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) during the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire, has left her senior council housing role at the Barnet Group following criticism from bereaved families and survivors. Johnson, who earned £157,078 annually in her position as director of development and property at the north London council housing organisation, was appointed in August, prompting a significant backlash due to her involvement in cost-cutting decisions prior to the Grenfell disaster, which resulted in 72 deaths.

The public inquiry into the Grenfell fire highlighted Johnson’s role in approving a lower-budget renovation contractor, leading to the replacement of metal cladding with combustible plastic-filled panels — a change later linked to the rapid spread of the fire. Her appointment at the Barnet Group, which manages approximately 13,000 council homes, was described by survivor groups as "outrageous and disrespectful."

In response to concerns, The Barnet Group informed Joe Powell, the Labour MP for Kensington and Bayswater, that Johnson was no longer employed there. Aaron McGoldrick, chair of the Barnet Group’s board, acknowledged the ongoing impact of the Grenfell tragedy on the community and recognized public interest regarding the governance of senior appointments. However, he stated that confidentiality obligations prevented the company from providing specific details about the circumstances surrounding Johnson’s departure.

The Grenfell United group, representing survivors and bereaved families, welcomed Johnson’s exit but stressed that it was part of a broader issue. A spokesperson noted that numerous individuals criticised by the inquiry remain in positions of authority with significant responsibilities, including safety oversight, despite the report’s damning findings. They called for greater accountability and reform to prevent those implicated in failings from continuing in roles related to public safety.

Joe Powell also commented on the issue, emphasizing the inappropriateness of anyone censured by the Grenfell inquiry continuing to work in housing, particularly while criminal investigations remain active. He affirmed that Johnson’s removal was the correct course of action, referencing the inquiry’s clear findings on the failings of RBKC and its senior housing officials.

Earlier, Barnet Group representatives had defended Johnson’s appointment, describing her as the “strongest candidate” chosen from a competitive pool based on her professional experience, performance, references, and qualifications.

Separately, police investigations into the Grenfell fire have advanced. The Metropolitan Police have referred 54 individuals and 20 organisations to prosecutors for possible charges including manslaughter and fraud. The Crown Prosecution Service has indicated that charging decisions will be made prior to the disaster’s tenth anniversary on June 14, 2027.

The situation illustrates ongoing tensions between the need for accountability among those linked to the Grenfell tragedy and the challenges faced by public housing bodies in balancing governance, trust, and employment decisions.