Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about safety provisions in a nearby development because this is a matter for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The complaint

1. Mr X complains about the safety of a nearby business and the storage of materials.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about councils and certain other bodies. We cannot investigate the actions of bodies such as the HSE. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 25 and 34A, as amended)

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by the complainant and the Council.
4. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. The Council confirms that the responsibility for ensuring the safety of storage materials in the business Mr X complains about is the responsibility of the HSE. The HSE is a body not within our jurisdiction.

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Final decision

6. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because the Council is not responsible for the matters complaint about.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman