Avamore Limited fined after failing to improve fire safety for residents

The company failed to comply with an Improvement Notice issued by Birmingham City Council in May last year requesting the installation of a fire detection system across the site’s three tower blocks. The system was designed to provide residents with early warning in the event of any fire outbreak involving the external walls of the buildings.

At Birmingham Magistrates’ Court (pictured), Avamore Limited pleaded guilty for failing to comply with the Improvement Notice requiring a National Fire Chiefs Council Category L5 fire alarm system to be installed. During the hearing, District Judge David Wain was informed that the company had carried out the necessary fire safety work in two of the three tower blocks, but not at the third block.

Following sentencing on 16 October, a £360,000 fine was reduced to £240,000 due to the company’s early guilty plea. Avamore Limited was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of just over £9,000 and a victim surcharge totalling £2,000.

The prosecution is the latest step in Birmingham City Council’s ongoing work to make high-rise residential buildings safer for those who live in them. Dedicated specialist officers continue to investigate fire safety concerns across the city, with 26 further developments currently subject to enforcement action.

Clear message

Councillor Harris Khaliq, Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet member for city services and digital, stated: “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. Residents should never be left worrying whether building owners are taking fire safety seriously or acting when risks are identified.”

Khaliq continued: “This case sends a clear message. If landlords, developers or building owners ignore legal notices designed to protect residents, Birmingham City Council will take action and hold them to account.”

Further, Khaliq observed: “For too long now, far too many people have felt powerless when serious issues affecting their safety were ignored. Our job at Birmingham City Council is to stand on the side of residents, not those who cut corners. That’s exactly what we are doing.”

In conclusion, Khaliq commented: “I want to thank our specialist officers for their determination and professionalism. They are leading on important work across the city to ensure that safety comes before profit and that those responsible for these buildings meet their obligations.”

*Further information is available online at www.birmingham.gov.uk