Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is prosecuting six companies for failing to comply with Fire Safety Regulations following an investigation into a major fire at Beechmere retirement village in Crewe in August 2019.
The Beechmere retirement village on Rolls Avenue, Crewe, was destroyed by fire on 8th August 2019. More than 150 residents lost their homes and possessions and although none were injured, the impact on their lives has been significant.
The Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have been investigating the causal factors of this event since that date. As a result of their investigations, charges have been brought against six companies that were involved in the management, construction or maintenance of the Beechmere Retirement Village. They are:
- Avantage (Cheshire) Ltd
- Your Housing Ltd
- Morgan Sindall Property Services Ltd
- WSP UK Ltd
- Total Fire Group Ltd
- MAC Roofing and Contractors Ltd
A full explanation of the charges can be found via the link below:
https://www.cheshirefire.gov.uk/news-events/latest-news/beechmere/?fbcl…
Dr Kieran Mullan MP stated;
“I am glad that the investigation into the tragic events at the Beechmere Retirement Complex is finally moving forward. I know that many residents and their families have been very frustrated at the long wait to get the answers that they deserve.”
“They still don’t have those answers, but we have now taken a major step forward. Whilst I did ask Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service to meet with residents, they were limited in what they could say at the time. Given the number of organisations named today, it was obviously a complex investigation.”
“We must now let the justice system run its course. I am sure throughout this process there will be difficult moments for former residents and their families. We know sadly some residents have passed away since the fire. As well as ensuring where necessary there is accountability for what happened, this trial can also help ensure that lessons are learned so that nothing like this ever happens again.”
What happens now?
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is unable to enter into detailed discussion about its investigation or specific charges owing to legal proceedings being active.
However, for general enquiries about the fire or forthcoming hearings, please contact the Service’s Media Desk on 01606 868880 or email [email protected]
The Desk is staffed between 8:30 and 16:30, Monday to Friday.
Up-dates will be posted by the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service on their web page.
Photo: Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service
https://www.cheshirefire.gov.uk/news-events/latest-news/beechmere/?fbcl…
