FOI Request 2217

Subject: Beechmere Legal Costs

Status: Complete

Date received: August 2025

Question Asked:

I am writing to request the following information in relation to the prosecution of Total Fire Group Limited in the case of R v Avantage and others at Chester Crown Court, case number T20230032 (trial commencing 6 May and concluding on 7 May):

1. Legal Costs Incurred

Please provide a detailed breakdown of all legal costs incurred by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service in connection with the above matter, including:

1. External counsel fees (including all preparation, court attendance, conferences and calls);

2. External solicitor fees (as above);

3. Internal staff time (including fire officers and the work of those in the police service)

4. Expert witness fees (including all work on reports, conferences and calls);

5. Any additional related investigative expenses; and

6. Court fees.

2. Timeline

Confirmation of the financial years during which these costs were incurred (from the fire on 8 August 2019 to the conclusion of the trial on 7 May 2025).

Our Response:

Please see our response below to your Freedom of Information Request.

Outcome: Information Provided

FOI responded to within timescales: YES

Further action: NO