The demolition of the Cliffdene Hotel in Newquay led to workers being exposed to asbestos.
- The company director responsible faced significant financial penalties for regulatory breaches.
- Issues arose from poor asbestos management, highlighting inadequate safety measures.
- The Health & Safety Executive’s investigation revealed extensive asbestos debris on site.
- Expert insights underscored the need for thorough hazard identification before demolition.
During the demolition of the former Cliffdene Hotel in Newquay, workers were subjected to asbestos exposure, prompting legal action against the company director. Paul Stephens, who led the now-dissolved Stephens & Stephens Developers Limited, was found to have neglected necessary precautions at the site where the hotel, closed since 2018, was being redeveloped into residential apartments.
An inquiry by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) identified significant failings in the management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), with substantial debris signalling widespread asbestos contamination. As the entity responsible for overseeing asbestos assessment and removal, the company failed to implement adequate measures to prevent exposure, leading to the prosecution of its director.
Paul Stephens admitted to breaching Regulation 16 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, in conjunction with Section 37(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The Truro Crown Court imposed a fine of £65,813 and additional costs amounting to £26,116. This ruling underscores the legal imperative for strict compliance in asbestos handling and removal processes to safeguard public and occupational health.
Georgina Symons, Principal Inspector at HSE, articulated that the hotel did not pose any structural risk before demolition, implying that appropriate asbestos removal could have been conducted safely. She emphasised the critical need for comprehensive assessments to identify, locate, and evaluate the condition of asbestos in properties prior to any demolition work. Individuals tasked with such assessments must be equipped with the requisite skills and expertise to ensure the safety of all involved parties.
This case highlights the critical importance of rigorous asbestos management and safety compliance during demolition projects.
