At Kirklees Magistrates' Court, Scanlans Property Management LLP pleaded guilty to failing to comply with an Enforcement Notice issued under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The offences related to a defective fire alarm system and the continued display of incorrect evacuation signage within the building.
The Court heard that despite longstanding concerns, faults within the fire alarm system remained unresolved, resulting in numerous attendances by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service due to false alarms. It was also established that evacuation notices advising residents to adopt a "stay put" strategy remained in place, despite a simultaneous evacuation strategy being required.
In sentencing, District Judge Pitts found culpability to be high and concluded that the failures created a high likelihood of serious harm in the event of a fire. The Court highlighted the risks posed to residents and noted that repeated false alarms could lead to complacency and delayed evacuation in an emergency.
The company was fined £153,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000 and prosecution costs of £11,410.15, bringing the total financial penalty to £166,410.15.
Chris Kemp, Senior Fire Protection Manager said:
"This is a significant outcome which demonstrates the importance of complying with fire safety legislation and ensuring that residents are protected from avoidable risks.
"The Court's findings reinforce the seriousness of these failings and send a clear message that where responsible persons fail to address known fire safety issues, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action.
"I would like to recognise the professionalism, determination and commitment shown by our Fire Protection Team throughout this lengthy and complex investigation led by Group Manager John Senior. This was an exceptionally thorough investigation, ensuring that the evidence presented to the Court was robust, accurate and compelling.
"This successful prosecution reflects the high standards of our Fire Protection Team and our ongoing commitment to keeping the people of West Yorkshire safe."
Following the hearing, Counsel Cassie Williams praised the investigation and case preparation, describing the result as a "great outcome" and recognising the quality of the evidence and witness statements that supported the prosecution.
This prosecution demonstrates WYFRS's continued commitment to holding duty holders to account where fire safety failures place residents and communities at risk.