Warwickshire companies prosecuted for breaching fire safety law

The long-running investigation has resulted in the successful prosecution of Qudhrat CIC (Company No 08405169), Mariam Khan and New Enterprise Limited (Company No 03520273) for offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

This prosecution followed a multi-agency inspection of premises at 4-12 Coventry Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5SZ, which took place on 13 May 2021. During the inspection, a number of serious fire safety failings were identified.

The investigation found that these breaches constituted offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. As a result, the defendants later pleaded guilty to a total of 13 fire safety offences for which they were sentenced on 12 February.

“Disaster waiting to happen”

During sentencing at Warwick Crown Court, Recorder Green KC stated: “This was a fire safety disaster waiting to happen.” He then handed down the following sentences:

Mariam Khan 

Mariam Khan received a ten‑month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months. She was also ordered to undertake 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and complete 50 hours of unpaid work.

Qudhrat CIC 

Qudhrat CIC received a fine of £120,000 and was also ordered to pay costs of £15,059.59.

New Enterprise Ltd 

New Enterprise Ltd received a fine of £56,000 and was ordered to pay costs of £11,462.09.

This case demonstrates Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to holding individuals and organisations accountable when they endanger lives by failing to comply with fire safety legislation. The Fire and Rescue Service will continue to pursue those who disregard their legal responsibilities to the fullest extent of the law.

Clear reminder  

Ben Brook, chief fire officer at the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, commented: “I commend the hard work and dedication of our staff in fulfilling our regulatory duties to protect the people of Warwickshire. I would also like to thank our partner agencies for their support throughout the investigation. I hope this case serves as a clear reminder to all ‘Responsible Persons’ that compliance with fire safety legislation is a legal obligation.”

Councillor Dale Bridgewater, portfolio holder for Fire and Rescue and community safety at Warwickshire County Council, observed: “This case demonstrates Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to holding individuals and organisations accountable when they fail to comply with fire safety legislation and endanger lives.”

Bridgewater concluded: “The efforts from all of the involved agencies demonstrate our commitment to keeping Warwickshire safe.”