Four people have died at a three-star hotel in a seaside town in Cornwall in a matter of months. Situated close to the popular seafront of Newquay, Sandy Lodge Hotel has been plagued by deaths in recent months. Four people have died after some were housed there in temporary accommodation. Since December 2024 two women and two men have died at the facility, and three of them were placed there by Cornwall Council, reports Cornwall Live.
The first death took place on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. Police were called by the ambulance service at 10.30am following concern for the welfare of a woman and found her dead.
Just a week later, police were once again called to the scene on Boxing Day, Thursday, December 26, following concern for the welfare of a man. The man, in his 50s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
On Monday, February 10, the ambulance service again called the police following concern for the welfare of a woman. A woman in her 50s was found dead.
Exactly a month later, on March 10, a man in his 60s was found dead after the ambulance service called the police at 9am following concerns for the welfare of the man.
Devon and Cornwall Police say the deaths are not understood to be linked, are being treated as not suspicious and the next of kin of each of those who have died have been informed.
Inquests will be held if any of the deaths are deemed unexplained or unnatural.
In response, Cornwall Council said that many of the people housed at Sandy Lodge "are in poor health – both physical and mental - or have experienced trauma".
A spokesperson said: “The council has a statutory duty to provide accommodation to people who find themselves homeless where they meet certain criteria. Many of the people we accommodate are in poor health – both physical and mental - or have experienced trauma.
“Before making a placement, we will carry out a risk assessment and consider its suitability, both in terms of the individual household, and broader social considerations. We also work closely with providers to manage any issues that may arise once someone has been placed.
“Cornwall Council is aware of three deaths at Sandy Lodge in recent months. In some cases, following a death, there will be a police investigation and possibly a coroner’s inquest, with which we would fully cooperate.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, reach out to the Samaritans at 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258 for immediate support.
