A landlord has been convicted after serious fire safety failings put residents’ lives at risk.
Jamie Carter and his company JC Land Investments Limited were sentenced at Preston Crown Court on September 28 for multiple breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 at properties in Darwen and Bacup.
Carter admitted 11 offences, while his company pleaded guilty to nine.
The offences related to fire safety failings at Belgrave Chapel in Darwen and Victoria Hall in Bacup, both managed by him.
Ian Armistead, group manager for protection at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Jamie Carter, as the responsible person for these premises and sole director of JC Land Investments, has a legal obligation to ensure that those using the premises are provided with a safe environment.
"We hope this prosecution reinforces the importance of maintaining properties in accordance with fire safety legislation and the standards required by law.
"We hope this case, which has resulted in a substantial sentence, sends a strong message that fire safety must remain a priority at all times."
The court heard that in October 2021, fire safety officers inspected Victoria Hall and found significant deficiencies.
An enforcement notice was issued.
Four weeks later, a prohibition notice was served at Belgrave Chapel following further serious concerns.
Both buildings were occupied at the time, and the failings identified could have prevented residents from escaping safely in the event of a fire.
Offences included failing to take adequate fire safety precautions, neglecting to carry out suitable risk assessments, and not providing or maintaining proper fire detection and alarm systems.
Other breaches involved poor evacuation procedures, failure to comply with notices, and inadequate management of fire safety.
Officers found obstructed escape routes, damaged fire doors, missing fire-resistant glazing, and fire alarm systems that were either switched off or not powered.
Carter was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay an £8,652 fine and a £156 victim surcharge.
JC Land Investments Limited was fined £200,000 and given a £190 victim surcharge.
Together, they were also ordered to pay £37,293.70 in costs to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
Mr Armistead said: "In this instance, inadequate fire safety measures and poor management had the potential to lead to serious injury or loss of life, leaving us with no alternative but to pursue enforcement action."
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