Bath Building Firm Fined After Worker Killed by Collapsing Wall

A building company faced a hefty fine after an employee was tragically crushed to death by a collapsing retaining wall in Bath.

Tragic Death of Grandad at School Construction Site

Gary Anstey, 57, from england/Bristolbristol–Englandengland/”>bristol/”>Bristol, had just become a grandad when disaster struck. He was working for H. Mealing & Sons Limited at Swainswick School on 19 March 2019. A 1.8m high retaining wall gave Wayway, crushing him beneath it.

HSE Blames Poor Planning and Supervision

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed serious failings by H. Mealing & Sons Limited. The company did not properly plan or supervise the wall’s construction. An incomplete, unsupported retaining wall collapsed after a heavy load of aggregate was placed against it.

HSE guidelines clearly state that temporary structures must be designed and installed to withstand all loads, with trained workers following a proper written plan.

Family Heartbroken as Justice Served

“Gary’s workplace should have been safe. He should have come home as always,” said his wife Anne Anstey. “He had just become a grandad and missed out on all our family milestones—celebrations that we now have to live without him.”

Mealing & Sons of Batheaston pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety laws. They were fined £56,775 and slapped with £44,000 in costs at Taunton Magistrates’ Court on 11 September 2025.

HSE Inspector Demands Better Safety Standards

Inspector Ian Whittles called the tragedy “horrific” and “heartbreaking.” He slammed the company’s lack of planning as “all too common” in construction work. “Simple procedures and proper training could have prevented this,” he added.