Firm faces trial after man killed by falling pane

A leading architecture firm is to stand trial over alleged health and safety failings after a coach driver was killed by a window pane that fell 25 storeys.

Mick Ferris, 53, was hit by the glass as he returned to his coach on central London's Albert Embankment on the morning of 2 October 2018.

The window fell from the penthouse of The Corniche, a luxury tower block designed by Foster and Partners. Ferris, who worked for Clarkes Of London, had parked opposite the building.

Legal representatives for Foster and Partners appeared at Inner London Crown Court earlier, where the firm was charged with failing to discharge a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Three other companies involved in the development, Lindner Prater Ltd, Wintech Ltd and St James Group Ltd, face the same charge.

All four are accused of exposing people, including Ferris, to a health and safety risk in relation to "the outward opening penthouse window vents".

The Corniche, which is on the south bank of the Thames directly opposite Tate Britain, contains 252 apartments priced between £2.7m and £6.25m.

Foster and Partners, founded by Lord Foster, also designed the Gherkin in the City of London.

The companies will stand trial at the same court on 6 July.

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