Fair ride firm given more time in crash investigation

The operators of a fairground ride which crashed in Birmingham city centre have been given more time to rectify failings identified by safety inspectors.

Thirteen people were injured when the 55m (180ft) City Star Flyer on Centenary Square lurched backwards before crashing to the ground on 12 December last year.

While an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has not been able to determine the exact cause of the fall, a number of electrical and control system deficiencies were identified.

Operator Danter Attractions Ltd was initially ordered to fix the failings ready to be reinspected by November but the deadline has now been extended.

The company has been contacted for comment.

The firm, which has operated several fairgrounds in Birmingham since the incident, has previously stated it would not comment due to the ongoing investigation. It has said the safety of its customers remained "paramount".

A spokesperson for HSE said: "The investigation is ongoing." It said the deadline had been extended to 28 March 2026.

Images taken by the BBC showed wires from at least two gondolas on the ride tangled up with each other.

West Midlands Fire Service confirmed the ride had "dropped to the ground" while it was in operation.

Following the crash, two people, aged 55 and 21, were arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and obstructing officers.

They have since been told that they will face no further action, West Midlands Police said.

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