Britannia Jinky Jersey Ltd, the owner of Pontins holiday parks, faces corporate manslaughter charges following a tragic incident at their Somerset resort in February 2019. A 40-meter section of structural ducting and ceiling collapsed in an entertainment hall, resulting in six injuries and the death of 68-year-old Wendy Jones.
The collapse occurred during a bingo event, with around 100 guests present. Investigations revealed that the ducting fell due to internal fixings installed before Britannia Jinky Jersey acquired the site. Despite regular maintenance checks, these fixings were not visible during inspections.
Contractor Stephen Bennison has also been charged under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Both defendants are scheduled to appear in court on May 6.
Britannia Jinky Jersey disputes claims that the ceiling collapse was due to unsafe sound insulation installation, stating that the insulation was installed by a specialist contractor in 2015. Following concerns raised by a former general manager, an independent assessment was conducted in 2016, leading to additional ceiling supports being installed.
Avon and Somerset Police, supported by Somerset Council, linked Jones’s death to the injuries sustained in the collapse, prompting the case referral to the CPS. Detective Superintendent Roger Doxsey emphasized the complexity of the investigation and the importance of a fair trial.
BBC News article:
Summary
Article Name
Corporate Manslaughter Charges for Pontins' Parent Company
DescriptionBritannia Jinky Jersey Ltd, the owner of Pontins holiday parks, faces corporate manslaughter charges following a tragic incident at their Somerset resort in February 2019.
Author
Colm Kelly
Publisher Name
Consult CPK
Publisher Logo
