Firefighters rush to the scene as central London flat ENGULFED in flames

Firefighters rush to the scene as central London flat ENGULFED in flames

WATCH: A fire at Paddington Basin

GB News
George Bunn

By George Bunn


Published: 15/08/2024

- 21:09

Updated: 16/08/2024

- 07:46

Emergency services attended the scene in Paddington Basin

Additional reporting by James Saunders

A fire has broken out at a block of flats in central London, less than three miles away from Grenfell Tower.

The fire has broken out in the block North Wharf Road, near Paddington Station.


Eyewitnesses told GB News that residents and pub-goers were told to evacuate and police and firefighters are at the scene as smoke billows from two sides of the building.

One eyewitness told GB News: "People waiting outside the building were alerted to the fire when glass in a 7th-floor window smashed."

\u200bThe fire broke out in the block in central London

The fire broke out in the block in central London

GB News

\u200bFire crews at the scene

Fire crews at the scene

GB News

Fire crews at the scene

Fire crews at the scene

GB News

Another added: "It took some time for firefighters to get to work on the building after residents were moved out."

A spokesperson from London Fire Brigade said: "Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters are tackling a fire at a block of flats on Hermitage Street in Paddington. A flat on the ninth floor of the building is alight.

"Members of the public are asked to avoid the area whilst firefighters work to extinguish the fire. The Brigade's Control Officers have received more than 10 calls about the fire.

"Crews from Paddington, Kensington, North Kensington and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.

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\u200bFire at the apartment in Paddington

Fire at the apartment in Paddington

GB News

"A 32m turntable ladder is also in use as a water tower to help fight the fire from height. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time."

Crews said they were first called at 8.46pm and the fire was brought under control at 9.43pm. A 32 metre turntable ladder has also been in use as a water tower to help fight the fire from height.

There are no reports of any injuries at this time.

GB News has approached the Met Police for a comment.

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