Home / Disasters and Accidents / Glasgow Lamppost Fall: Man's Life Changed Forever
Glasgow Lamppost Fall: Man's Life Changed Forever
9 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A lamppost fell on a man outside Kelvinside Academy on June 20, 2023.
- The council admitted health and safety breaches over the poorly inspected lamppost.
- The man suffered severe, life-changing injuries including spinal and leg fractures.
A devastating incident occurred outside Glasgow's Kelvinside Academy on June 20, 2023, when a lamppost tragically fell on Colin Shaw, 50. The heavy structure pinned him to the ground, resulting in life-changing injuries. Shaw sustained multiple fractures to his spine and tibia, necessitating two surgeries and leaving one leg shorter than the other. The former active man now suffers from flashbacks, impacting his mental well-being.
Investigations revealed the lamppost, twice its operational lifespan, had not been properly inspected and was in poor condition. Glasgow City Council has pleaded guilty to health and safety breaches. The council has issued an apology to Mr. Shaw, acknowledging the failure in inspection and assuring that their street lighting maintenance procedures have since been updated and enhanced.
Sentence for the council's health and safety breaches has been deferred to next month. Mr. Shaw expressed relief that the legal proceedings are nearing a conclusion, acknowledging the profound impact the accident has had on his life. The council reiterated its deep regret for the incident and the harm caused to Mr. Shaw.
