Window fell one year ago in spot where man was killed

A WINDOW unit had already fallen a year ago from the same luxury riverside tower block where a man was crushed to death on Tuesday, it has emerged.

Mick Ferris, 53, a coach driver, was killed when the window fell on him from the top floor of The Corniche, apartments designed by Lord Foster, on London’s Albert Embankment.

He died instantly, leaving his family grief-stricken.

Now it has emerged that a window slipped from its mountings from an upper floor of the development in August 2017, falling to the pavement and narrowly missing two carpenters working below.

No one was hurt in the incident. However, it did force developers to “amend” the design of the unit.

A spokesman for St James Property Developers, part of the Berkeley Group, which is responsible for the apartment block, said: “There was an incident at The Corniche in August 2017, during construction, where a casement window fell from the upper floor. No one was hurt.

“There was a full investigation instigated by St James, after which the design was amended in accordance with the expert advice received.”

The firm said it was cooperating with the Met Police and Health and Safety Executive investigation into the latest accident.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Mr Ferris’ family at this incredibly difficult time,” said the spokesman.

Mr Ferris had reportedly stopped to use the lavatory in the Riverbank Plaza Hotel, next door to The Corniche, and was returning to his vehicle when the accident happened.