Chloe Haynes, a 21-year-old holiday park worker, was tragically found crushed to death by a wardrobe in her room at the Adelphi Hotel on Ranelagh Street in Liverpool.

The incident occurred in the early hours of 10 September 2022, when Chloe returned to her room after a night out in the city. Her lifeless body was discovered by a friend.

Investigation prompts potential prosecution

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has reported that Liverpool Council is actively exploring options for potential legal action following its investigation into Chloe's death.

One avenue being considered is the prosecution of Britannia Hotels, the parent company of the Adelphi. The council is determined to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Emergency services respond to distress calls

Emergency services received distress calls concerning a "concern for safety" on the night of 10 September 2022. When Merseyside police entered Chloe's hotel room, they discovered her lifeless body.

Three men aged 26, 46, and 49 were initially arrested in connection with the incident. They were subsequently released without charge after the police concluded that Chloe's death was accidental.

Safety concerns prompt spot checks

Liverpool Council then conducted spot checks at the Adelphi hotel. These inspections resulted in the issue of prohibition notices on 22 September 2022, specifically addressing the safety of wardrobes of the type in Chloe's room.

Concerns were also raised regarding the condition of the windows at the hotel. Although window restrictors are not legally required, they must be maintained properly to prevent falls.

Britannia Hotels appeals prohibition notices

In response to the prohibition notices, Britannia Hotels launched an appeal against Liverpool Council. The appeal was heard at the Manchester Employment Tribunal on 14 June 2023.

One notice related to the wardrobes was cancelled due to the hotel's compliance within the specified time frame, but a second notice regarding window safety was upheld as the required action was not completed on time.

A comprehensive written judgement on the case is expected within three weeks of the tribunal hearing.

Silence from Britannia Hotels

Liverpool Council's investigation into Chloe Haynes' death remains ongoing and is unaffected by the proceedings in Manchester. However, a separate investigation into the hotel was launched following an injury to a guest in May 2022.