Alistair Taylor, a 34-year-old father of four from Blackpool, took his own life after suffering 'extreme stress and hardship' caused by Blackpool Council, an inquest has heard. Mr Taylor, who ran a successful barbershop for many years, was forced to relocate when the council abruptly ended his lease at Abingdon Street Market. A year later, he received notice that the council intended to seize his family home under a Compulsory Purchase Order to build a new education campus.
The inquest at Blackpool Town Hall on Friday heard that Mr Taylor had modified his home to accommodate the needs of his two disabled children. The coroner, Alan Wilson, stated that losing his house and business were among several factors leading to his mental health deterioration. He noted that the council had 'under-appreciated the potential impact' on Mr Taylor and his family.
The inquest also revealed that Mr Taylor's marriage was under significant strain, and he was increasingly affected by 'exposure to influences on social media', which came at 'the detriment of his marriage'. On 4 October last year, he died after hanging himself. His father, Paul, said his son felt 'intimidated and bullied' by the council, which imposed three major life disruptions over three years: loss of job, income, and home.
Paul Taylor said: 'Research shows that any one of these factors significantly increases the risk of suicide. Experiencing all three can be catastrophic.' The family claimed the council made 'derisory' offers for a new home, and the process took two years before Mr Taylor finally accepted an offer. He had been working more than 60 hours a week to rebuild his business after being forced to relocate.
The coroner recorded a conclusion of suicide, noting multiple factors contributed to Mr Taylor's death. Blackpool Council has been contacted for comment.
