BOSSES at a shopping centre are carrying out a review into its rooftop car park safety following the death of teenager.
Lauren Johnson, 17, from Oswaldtwistle, is thought to have committed suicide after falling between 80ft and 100ft from the Accrington Arndale.
Michael Singleton, coroner for Blackburn, Hynburn and the Ribble, Valley, called on bosses at the shopping centre to consider putting up railings to prevent future deaths at a hearing before the inquest into Lauren’s death.
David Berman, director of Jesta Capital Corporation, on behalf of the Accrington Arndale, said: “We have temporarily closed all access to the top deck of the car park, at least until such time as we have concluded a full review of safety in the car park.
“This review will include not only the top deck but also the lower level openings.
“A full risk assessment by an independent third party is being carried out and we are looking at closing off all the openings.”
He added that the Arndale had offered to work with and make premises available to Lauren’s Place, a charity set up in Lauren’s memory, and that the centre will continue to work with Samaritans on building awareness and the handling of potential suicides.
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