Fire Sparks Mass Evacuation at Parkside House
The London Fire Brigade sprang into action at 6.20pm on October 11 after a blaze erupted in an electrical intake cupboard on the second floor of Parkside House, Bell Farm Avenue. Firefighters in breathing apparatus battled the flames and had the fire under control by 7.57pm.
Miraculously, none of the eight evacuees—three adults and five children from two families—were injured. All were taken to hospital as a precaution.
Residents Left Homeless as Council Scrambles to Help
All residents were forced out of their flats. Barking and Dagenham Council swung into action, setting up a rest centre at Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club to provide shelter and support.
But the news isn’t good. On October 12, residents received a stark update: Don’t expect to return until at least October 18. The council revealed UK Power Networks must restore power and carry out full wiring safety checks before homes are habitable again.
“It is unlikely that anyone will be able to return to live in their home until at least next weekend (18 October).”
Support Efforts Ramp Up as Delays Continue
- Temporary council accommodation will be extended through next weekend.
- Residents staying with friends or family are urged to remain there unless emergency housing is necessary.
- The assistance centre at Dagenham and Redbridge FC is open daily, moving to Dagenham Library from Tuesday.
- Security guards are posted at Parkside House, escorting residents inside to collect essentials. Beware: no lifts, lights, power, or water are working.
- A resident meeting will be held Monday, 13 October at 1.30pm at the football club with updates on the situation.
Emergency Funds Released Amid Fire Probe
The council is urgently contacting affected households to release emergency funds, a task slowed by families being scattered across London.
The fire’s cause remains under investigation as the community pulls together to recover from this sudden crisis.
