18th October 2025
A formal ethics complaint has been submitted to Balfour Beatty, one of the UK’s largest construction groups, over alleged safety and compliance issues linked to lightning protection systems on a major sports facility.
In correspondence seen by the Romiley Gazette, a former associate involved with the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Stadium and Bridge project has written to Balfour Beatty’s Ethics & Compliance Team raising concerns that key lightning protection measures may not have met the required British Standards.
The individual claims that design and installation work did not comply with BS EN 62305 – the national standard governing lightning protection – and that internal warnings were overlooked. The complaint also alleges that assurances to external stakeholders were inconsistent with the facts on site.
The letter, addressed to the company’s Ethics & Compliance Team and copied to its Group Legal Director, requests a formal investigation and asks for confirmation that whistleblowers will be protected from any detriment. It cites duties under UK health and safety law, construction regulations, and the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has not confirmed whether it has received any referral relating to the project. No enforcement notices or public findings have been issued against Balfour Beatty in connection with the Exeter Chiefs development.
Industry observers note that lightning protection standards are a critical but sometimes overlooked aspect of public-venue construction. Experts emphasise that systems must be properly designed, tested, and certified to ensure public safety.
The complainant has indicated that if the company’s internal review does not provide satisfactory assurances, the matter may be referred to regulators and parliamentary oversight bodies.
At the time of writing, the complaint remains under consideration by Balfour Beatty’s Ethics & Compliance team.
