Massive Blaze Engulfs London Nursery, Investigation Underway
Dozens of firefighters battled a significant blaze that erupted at a London nursery on Saturday evening, causing extensive damage to the building’s roof. The incident, which occurred in Lewisham, southeast London, saw eight fire engines and approximately 60 firefighters deployed to the scene.
Videos circulating on social media platforms captured the dramatic scenes, with the roof of Rushey Green Nursery, located in Catford, appearing engulfed in flames. Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky, visible to concerned local residents who gathered to witness the unfolding emergency.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed receiving the initial calls reporting the fire at around 6:40 pm. Crews were swiftly mobilised from several neighbouring fire stations to combat the inferno. Upon arrival, firefighters found the roof of the three-storey nursery building alight, with reports indicating that nearly half of the roof structure was destroyed by the fire.
Safety Advisories and Traffic Disruption
In response to the heavy smoke generated by the fire, residents in the vicinity were advised to keep their windows and doors shut to prevent smoke ingress. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
The fire also led to road closures in the area, causing considerable traffic and congestion. Authorities urged the public to avoid the affected locality to facilitate the work of emergency services and alleviate traffic issues.
Community Reaction and Nursery Background
The community expressed sadness and concern over the incident. One social media user shared their experience, stating, “Very bad fire, I was trying to get through and could smell the smoke in my car.” Another resident lamented the loss of a cherished establishment, adding, “So sad to see, it was one well loved and established nursery.” A third commenter observed the scale of the emergency response, noting, “Roof well alight. Lots of emergency services there and tons of smoke. Keep those windows closed.”
According to its website, Rushey Green Nursery provides childcare services for children ranging from three months to five years old, highlighting the potential impact of this incident on local families.
Fire Brigade’s Account of the Incident
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade provided further details on the operation. They confirmed that the Brigade’s Control Office received the first of 17 calls at 6:37 pm. Fire crews were dispatched from Bromley, East Greenwich, Peckham, and other surrounding fire stations. The fire was brought under control at 9:25 pm.
Firefighters were expected to remain at the scene for several hours to ensure the fire was completely extinguished and to manage any residual risks. Residents were reiterated to avoid the area due to ongoing road closures and the resultant traffic congestion on surrounding roads.
Ongoing Investigation
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this time.
James J Walsh, Councillor for Rushey Green, also shared a video of the incident online, alerting constituents to the active fire at Rushey Green Nursery and advising them to alter their travel plans to anticipate delays.
