Firms deny charges over Beechmere retirement village blaze

More than 150 people lost their homes after the fire in August 2019

Three companies have pleaded not guilty to fire safety charges over a blaze that destroyed a retirement village.

More than 150 people lost their homes after the fire at Beechmere, in Crewe, in August 2019. No-one was hurt.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service brought the court case and alleged six firms failed to comply with safety legislation.

The other three companies did not indicate pleas in the hearing at Warrington Magistrates' Court.

The case was sent to Chester Crown Court for its next appearance, on 14 November, after magistrates said it was a "complicated matter" in the hearing on Tuesday.

A potential trial could last up to 12 weeks, the court heard.

The fire service said it brought charges against companies involved in designing and building the complex as well as firms responsible for repairs, roofing works, facilities management and fire risk assessments.

The six companies which appeared at the magistrates court were:

• Avantage (Cheshire) Ltd - pleaded not guilty

• Your Housing Ltd - pleaded not guilty

• Morgan Sindall Property Services Ltd - pleaded not guilty

• WSP UK Ltd - no indication of plea

• Total Fire Group Ltd - no indication of plea

• MAC Roofing and Contractors Ltd - no indication of plea

All were accused of offences of failing to comply with the Fire Safety (Regulatory Reform) Order 2005.