Developer Responds After Concrete Pipe Accident Leaves Teen Critically Injured
A contractor was seriously hurt at the DH1 Sniperley Park development on Thursday, April 16. A concrete pipe toppled onto a 17-year-old worker just before 1pm. The teenager suffered head and neck injuries and was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.
Emergency response
The North East Ambulance Service received a call at 12.49pm. Crews sent an ambulance team, a specialist paramedic, two clinical team leaders, and a duty officer.
The Great North Air Ambulance Service activated its critical care team at 12.59pm. Their rapid response vehicle, with two paramedics and a doctor, arrived at 1.28pm.
GNAAS staff worked alongside NEAS to assess the patient. The injured person was transported to the RVI by a NEAS road crew.
Developer and contractor statements
Bellway confirmed the incident at its DH1 development. The company said groundworks were being carried out by principal contractor Esh Group.
A Bellway spokesperson said the contractor involved is assisting police and the HSE with enquiries. The developer offered condolences to the injured worker’s family and colleagues.
Esh Group response
Esh Group said it is supporting Durham Police and the Health and Safety Executive during their enquiries. The firm described the event as a serious incident.
The company said the injured person was a subcontractor employee. Esh Group added it would continue to provide support where appropriate.
Investigation and support
Durham Police confirmed the injuries were life-threatening. Specialist officers are supporting the teenager’s family.
The Health and Safety Executive confirmed it has opened an investigation. HSE inspectors attended the Sniperley Park site on April 16.
Context and next steps
Local authorities and contractors continue to cooperate with investigators. The cause of the concrete pipe accident remains under examination.
Filmogaz.com will monitor the situation and provide further updates as inquiries progress. The developer responds and safety teams work to determine what happened.
