In a significant move to bolster construction safety and align with global best practices, Grenada’s Planning and Development Authority (PDA) has unveiled the ‘Check Consultant Clause’ under the Regional Building Code. This innovative framework mandates an independent third-party technical review for complex or large-scale developments, ensuring that qualified engineers or architects oversee critical design stages. The initiative aims to mitigate structural and foundational risks, which have recently plagued projects both locally and regionally.
At a recent press conference, PDA Chairman Kenrick Fullerton underscored the importance of this measure, stating, ‘This is not merely about compliance; it’s about safeguarding lives, protecting investments, and fostering public trust in our construction practices. It also supports Grenada’s national resilience agenda.’
To facilitate the rollout, the PDA has partnered with Hon. Tony Gibbs, a renowned regional engineer and author of the Check Consultant implementation guidelines. Gibbs will spearhead a series of technical training sessions and stakeholder seminars in collaboration with the Architectural Society, the Grenada Institute of Professional Engineers (GIPE), and local financial institutions. These sessions will cover Grenada’s multi-hazard environment, including wind, earthquake, and structural safety, while guiding professionals on integrating the Check Consultant process into project workflows.
The first training session is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 November 2025, from 9 am to 1 pm, with both in-person and virtual attendance options. The agenda includes technical briefings on multi-hazard design principles, procedural guidance on the Check Consultant framework, and a Q&A segment for professionals and financial institutions. Participation is mandatory for engineers and architects seeking to qualify as Check Consultants, while financial institutions are strongly encouraged to attend due to the potential impact on construction financing and risk assessment.
This initiative is part of the PDA’s broader modernization efforts, which include the adoption of national Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedures and the Fast-Track Review Policy. These measures aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and public accountability in Grenada’s development sector. For further details or to confirm attendance, stakeholders can contact the PDA Front Desk via email or phone.