The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has been advised to reconsider its decision to use materials from an insulation company implicated in the Grenfell Tower inquiry for a new training facility, according to the Guardian.
The RFU is constructing a new 'flexible multi-purpose space' and a storage facility at Pennyhill Park, England's training base since 2003. Planning submissions seen by the Guardian indicate that the union plans to use materials from the Irish company Kingspan. Work commenced at the end of August, including the delivery of Kingspan materials.
The final report of the Grenfell Tower inquiry, released last month, found that Kingspan was not directly responsible for the Grenfell fire but exhibited 'complete disregard for fire safety' in its marketing of one of its products. The report also highlighted 'deeply entrenched and persistent dishonesty' by the company in pursuit of commercial gain.
The RFU is building a temporary 'demountable' structure and has applied for planning permission for an initial five-year period, as it considers relocating England's senior side post-World Cup. A planning submission from the union suggests uncertainty about staying at Pennyhill Park beyond 2028 and potential changes in requirements after the 2027 World Cup.
The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 resulted in 72 deaths. While a small amount of Kingspan insulation was used on the building, it was not the cause of the fire. The main cause was the non-compliant cladding, which facilitated the rapid spread of flames.
The inquiry's final report traces a 'path to disaster' back to the 1990s and scrutinizes the broader conduct of the construction industry. It found that Kingspan 'knowingly created a false market in insulation' from 2005 onwards for buildings over 18 meters tall.
Following the report's publication, major-winning golfer Shane Lowry cut ties with Kingspan, and the Mercedes F1 team removed its sponsorship during the inquiry. Ulster rugby club, whose stadium was sponsored by Kingspan, announced the end of their partnership in June 2025, under government pressure and criticism from then Levelling Up secretary Michael Gove.
Grenfell United, representing survivors and bereaved families, expressed disappointment with the RFU's decision, urging them to reconsider. Kingspan welcomed the report, emphasizing that the type of insulation was immaterial and that the principal cause of the fire was the PE ACM cladding, not made by Kingspan.
The RFU ordered the Kingspan materials in July, different from those used at Grenfell, while the public inquiry was ongoing but before the final report. The union aims to have the single-storey facility ready for England's November internationals.
In plans seen by the Guardian, the new 'inspirational' facility will include bean bags, card tables, and a theatre-style meeting area, accommodating various training camp needs.
An RFU spokesperson stated that they do not discuss individual suppliers unless they are brand partners, ensuring compliance with best practices and building control regulations.
