A snow center company embroiled in a scandal and fined for the death of a 12-year-old boy has accumulated more than £6 million in profits since the tragic incident, recent findings reveal.
Louis Watkiss lost his life at a tobogganing event at SnowDome in Tamworth, leading to a £100,000 penalty imposed on the company earlier this year. Despite the parents of the young boy being denied a full inquest into his death last week, details of the company’s substantial profits have come to light. The Health and Safety Executive investigation following Louis’ death on September 24, 2021, found SnowDome Ltd responsible for failing to ensure the safety of customers, including Louis, during tobogganing activities at the facility.
An assessment of SnowDome Ltd’s financial records indicates impressive profits made by the company in the three years post the tragic incident. The company reported a pre-tax profit of £2,028,759 for the year ending September 30, 2024. In the preceding year, the profit before tax was £2,573,536, showing an increase from £1,998,567 for the year ending September 30, 2022.
In parallel, Louis’ parents expressed their dismay last week after their request for a comprehensive inquest was denied. They had sought a formal inquest to be conducted publicly, but this was turned down during a pre-inquest session overseen by Coroner Fiona Gingell on November 7. Louis’ mother, Natalie, shared their emotional turmoil, stressing the impact on their family and the need for closure and time to be with their surviving son.
Louis’ father also voiced the ongoing anguish they endure, highlighting the perpetual pain they face daily. The lack of resolution exacerbates their suffering, leaving them apprehensive about the future.
Moreover, the HSE investigation into the incident underscored the lapses in safety protocols at SnowDome Ltd, leading to the tragic accident. The company admitted guilt at Telford Magistrates’ Court for breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act and was fined £100,000, along with being directed to pay costs of £14,534. SnowDome Ltd has been approached for comment.