Trial set for boy accused over fire at Park Hall nightclub

The boy, 16, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday (August 19).

No pleas were entered at the hearing, but a provisional trial date has been set for October 19, with an estimated length of two days.

The fire at Park Hall nightclub in Charnock Richard (Image: Social Media)

The boy is accused of starting a fire that ripped through the Park Hall nightclub in Charnock Richard on April 17.

Ten fire engines were called to the grounds of the nightclub, and images from the scene showed large flames coming from the nightclub building, which is in a complex alongside a leisure centre and a gym close to the M6.

A club spokesperson said at the time: "While areas have been significantly affected, the nightclub itself has sustained less damage than we first thought.

"We will look at beginning restoration as soon as possible and hope to reopen in the near future."

The boy is charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.

Staff at Teesside Crown Court previously told the Lancashire Telegraph that a plea to a different charge had been entered in error.

He has been remanded in custody.