A significant fire broke out this afternoon in a block of flats on Onslow Street, Guildford, prompting a swift response from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. The blaze, reported shortly before 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, saw eight fire engines and an aerial ladder deployed to the scene. Residents in nearby buildings were advised to keep doors and windows closed to avoid inhaling smoke and fumes.
The fire led to road closures on Bedford Road and Laundry Road, with both streets cordoned off near Guildford Crown Court and the Odeon Cinema as firefighters tackled the flames. One person was taken to the hospital, while two others were treated on the scene by paramedics.
At 5 p.m., Surrey Fire and Rescue Service reported the fire was extinguished, though three pumps and an aerial ladder remained to ensure the building’s safety. Surrey Fire and Rescue posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, advising, “Please avoid the area and if you live nearby, please keep windows and doors shut.” The roads were reopened to the public shortly afterwards.
Station Commander Love provided an update from the scene, confirming that the fire occurred in a residential flat above the Bedford Road car park, which had its southern entrance closed temporarily. The northern entrance, however, remained open. Although most fire engines have since left, fire crews are continuing their dampening efforts to prevent any flare-ups.
Drivers and pedestrians in Guildford’s town centre are still encouraged to exercise caution and avoid Onslow Street where possible.
