A fire which broke out on Monday (12.10.15) caused extensive damage to student accommodation in the centre of Bristol.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service received more than 50 emergency 999 calls after flames were spotted coming from the roof of the five storey building at around 1300hrs. At the height of the incident eight fire engines, two turntable ladders and more than 40 firefighters were involved in tackling the fire.
The turntable ladders were used to deliver water from above as the fire was contained to the fifth floor and roof void. By the early evening firefighters in breathing apparatus were able to enter parts of the building to deal with remaining ‘hot spots’ from inside. A structural engineer also attended the scene to assess the damage to the building.
There were no reports of any injuries. The University of Bristol and Bristol City Council worked to find accommodation for more than 100 students displaced by the fire.
Colston Street was closed as firefighters dealt with the incident and rush hour motorists were advised to avoid the area.
During the course of Monday night and Tuesday morning fire crews provided regular reinspections and dealt with any small pockets of fire that remained. Despite the fire and rescue service attendance being scaled back, Colston Street and a number of surrounding roads were expected to remain closed into the week due to concerns over the stability of the building.
On Tuesday morning fire investigation officers were able to access the building in order begin an investigation into the cause of the fire which initial reports suggested broke out in a kitchen area.
Further information in relation to the cause is expected today and this report will be updated.
For more information, go to www.avonfire.gov.uk
