The historic Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, where a 21-year-old woman died after a wardrobe fell on her and a three-year-old girl suffered head injuries from a cabinet, has been described as an 'unsafe place' in court. The Britannia Adelphi Hotel, one of the city's most famous establishments, has hosted notable figures such as Sir Winston Churchill and was featured in the 1997 BBC documentary series Hotel.
Health and Safety Charges
Britannia Hotels, the owners, appeared in court facing 20 charges of breaching health and safety regulations following the death of Chloe Haynes in September 2022. Ms Haynes was found dead in her room after a wardrobe fell on her. Some charges relate specifically to room 510, where she was staying, and a failure to prevent the wardrobe 'toppling over'. Other charges concern different rooms, with allegations of 'unstable furniture' and windows that open too wide, allowing guests to 'climb out'.
Prosecution's Statement
Kate Blackwell, prosecuting for Liverpool City Council, told Liverpool Magistrates' Court that the hotel was an 'unsafe place'. She stated that the wardrobe which killed Chloe was left 'hanging' by the side of her neck. In a separate incident in August 2023, a three-year-old girl sustained head injuries after a corner cabinet fell on her.
Defence Response
Keith Morton KC, representing Britannia Hotels, indicated that they would not be entering a plea at this stage. The case has been sent to Liverpool Crown Court, with an initial hearing set for June 4.
Background of the Incident
Ms Haynes, from Wrexham, had travelled to Liverpool from Pwllheli, North Wales, where she worked, for a night out. She was sharing a room with a colleague who discovered her body. Her mother, Nicola Williams, told the Liverpool Echo that Chloe had attended an engagement party and had returned to the hotel 'a bit drunk'. She speculated that Chloe might have opened the wardrobe door in confusion, thinking it was the toilet or exit. The heavy wardrobe fell and crushed her windpipe. Ms Williams described her daughter as 'petite and beautiful', nicknamed 'Birdy'. Three men who came to Chloe's aid were initially arrested on suspicion of murder but later released without charge.
Investigation and History
The tragedy prompted an investigation by the Council's environmental health department. The Adelphi Hotel, first opened in 1826 by James Radley, has grown in popularity and hosted famous guests including Roy Rogers and his racehorse Trigger.
