Blocked Escape Route and Missing Alarms: Bude Business Fined £12,775 for Fire Safety Breaches

A business owner in Bude has been ordered to pay £12,775 in fines and court costs after multiple serious fire safety breaches were found at the Tree Inn in Stratton.

Inspections Uncover Serious Safety Risks

Officers from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service inspected the guest accommodation at the Tree Inn in both May and September 2023. During those visits, they identified several significant issues including:

• Inadequate fire detectors and smoke alarms

• A lack of suitable fire risk assessments

• An escape route blocked by an air conditioning unit

• Missing fire doors where required

On Tuesday 25th March 2025, Simon Floyd, owner of the Tree Inn, appeared at Bodmin Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to four charges under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Simon was fined £8,000, ordered to pay full costs of £2,755, and a £2,000 victim surcharge—bringing the total to £12,775.

Fire Service Responds

Matt Worthington, Fire Safety Manager for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“While we strive to work with business owners to maintain fire safety standards, our priority is to keep our communities safe. Prosecution is always a last resort, but when serious risks to public safety are identified, we will not hesitate to take action.”

The issues identified during last year’s inspections have since been rectified.

Antony Bartlett, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, added:

“We have a duty to ensure that businesses prioritise the safety of their employees, customers and the public.

“This case serves as a stark reminder to employers, managers and owners of similar establishments that they have a responsibility to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding lives and property, conducting over 600 audits of business premises every year. We will continue to hold those who disregard these critical fire safety regulations accountable for their actions.”

Business Owners Encouraged to Review Safety Measures

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service is urging all business owners to take a closer look at their own fire safety protocols and ensure they are complying with legal requirements.

More information about fire safety responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order can be found on the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Business Fire Safety website.