Britain’s biggest pub chain has been charged over the death of a student, who was crushed to death at one of their bars.
20-year-old Olivia Burt died after she suffered a serious head injury outside Missoula nightclub in Durham City during February 2018.
She was in her first year at Durham University, studying natural sciences.
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Four years after her tragic death, Durham County Council has now charged Stonegate Pub Company with four health and safety breaches, as reported by the Mirror.
The case is scheduled at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court, for March 1.
The Crown Prosecution Service decided not to pursue manslaughter charges, leading to the council's action.
Olivia’s heartbroken parents, Nigel and Paula Burt have unresolved questions about the night their daughter died and supported the move to hold the pub accountable.
They said: "We do not understand how our only child died on a night out with friends."
Joanne Waller, Durham County Council ’s head of community protection, acknowledge the action but said she was unable to offer any further details.
She said: "We can confirm we have served a summons on Stonegate Pub Company for four charges under the Health and Safety at Work Act, in relation to matters dating from February 2017 to February 2018.
"While proceedings are ongoing, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further."
The criminal proceedings will take place ahead of a previously planned inquiry.
Olivia died at the scene despite the best efforts of emergency services.
At the time, her parents said they were "devastated and heartbroken" by her loss.
They said: "She was a wonderful young woman and our words cannot truly express how much we miss her."
A spokesperson for Stonegate Group said: “Due to ongoing legal proceedings, we are unable to comment at this time.”
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