Emergency Workers Pelted With Missiles

According to the BBC, over 2,000 people had gathered at the four-storey property in Park Lane, some climbing on the roof, and there were fears that the building may collapse due to the high volume of people.

As police, ambulance and fire crews acted to try and get people to leave the building they were pelted with bricks, bottles and slates.

Police are trying to establish who organised the event, however they believe that it was organised via Facebook.

Police stated that “People were seen climbing on to the roof and police were concerned that the roof and structure of the building was unsafe.”

They also said that “Police used loud hailers to ensure that people inside understood they needed to leave the building and the area for their own safety.”

Had the building collapsed under the immense number of people who were present then there could have been several injuries and there would have been a requirement for an investigation in to whether this was the cause of the accident. It might also have to consider the Occupiers Liability Act 1957 and whether the building itself was erected in compliance with the building regulations imposed at the time regarding health and safety.

The emergency services should be praised for their quick and decisive actions and their bravery in carrying out the task in what was clearly a hostile environment. Undoubtedly they helped to negate the chances of an unfortunate accident occurring.