The client on the £9m Grenfell Tower refurbishment project appeared to be “struggling” to deal with all the design issues that cropped up – yet had ruled out hiring specialist advice that would have cost around £30,000, the inquiry has been told.

Budget was a key factor on the project, with the client trying to save £800,000.

Giving evidence on Thursday, Neil Reed of consultant Artelia described being surprised by the number of inappropriate design queries he received from Claire Williams, project manager at the client, Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (TMO).

He was also surprised by the number of design changes still being asked for by the client.

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