Northumberland hotelier in court for breaching fire safety legislation

The offences related to significant fire safety deficiencies identified during a routine fire safety audit conducted back in June 2021. The deficiencies posed a risk of death or serious injury in the event of fire.

Rohman also pleaded guilty to one charge of failing to comply with the requirements of an Enforcement Notice, itself intended to make the hotel safe, that was served following the initial audit in June 2021.

Following Rohman’s guilty plea, the case has been adjourned for financial statements to be produced prior to the sentencing hearing on 17 July at Newcastle Crown Court.

The offences listed are punishable by a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment.  

Richard Leighton, Group manager of the Fire Safety Department at the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The safety of our communities in Northumberland is our priority and we will always work with those responsible for fire safety within premises where fire safety legislation applies to ensure people are safe from the risk of fire.”