A fatal fall from a London skyscraper has led to Foster + Partners, one of the UK's leading architecture firms, facing trial over allegations it failed to ensure public safety. The charges stem from the tragic death of Mick Ferris, 53, who was hit by a falling window pane in Vauxhall on 2 October 2018. As the company prepares its defence at Inner London Crown Court, key questions surround the firm's responsibility for prioritising safety in high-rise developments.
The incident occurred when Mr Ferris, a coach driver, was struck by a 130kg glass panel measuring approximately 85cm wide and 190cm tall as it plummeted from a penthouse apartment at The Corniche. Designed by Foster + Partners, the luxury residential tower features 252 apartments on the south bank of the Thames opposite Tate Britain.
Prosecutors have alleged that the firm's original design for the windows specified an inward-opening mechanism, which was later altered to an outward-opening design. This change was deemed 'not safe' by prosecutors and posed a significant risk if a gust of wind were to dislodge the window panels from their hinges.
The court heard that the new design included only one metal 'restrictor' securing each outward-facing window, with no failsafe or reliable backup in place. This lack of effective safety measures is being scrutinised as contributing factors to Mr Ferris's tragic death.
Foster + Partners faces charges alongside three other companies involved in The Corniche's development – Lindner Prater Ltd, Wintech Ltd, and St James Group Ltd – who are accused of exposing individuals to health and safety risks related to the outward-opening window vents. A prior incident on 18 August 2017 saw another window panel fall from the building without causing harm, prompting concerns that developers failed to address the design flaws.
The trial is ongoing at Inner London Crown Court with further proceedings expected to shed light on the firm's decisions regarding safety protocols and design revisions at The Corniche. A successful prosecution will have significant implications for the construction industry in terms of adhering to health and safety standards, particularly in high-rise developments.