Major Fire in Richmond Ten Pump Blaze with Persons unaccounted for
A major blaze has broken out at a commercial property located on Richmond Road in Twickenham with confirmed reports of persons inside the building.
The London Fire Brigade was called at just before 5pm on Friday evening (18 July), dispatching ten fire engines to the scene and an aerial ladder to the scene.
Huge Emergency Response
Crews are currently battling the blaze, with firefighters in breathing apparatus working inside and outside the building.
A large cordon is in place and Richmond Road has been closed in both directions to allow emergency crews full access to the scene.
London Fire Brigade Statement Pending
Witnesses at the scene have reported thick smoke pouring from the roof of the historic leatherworks facility, which dates back to the 19th century.
A specialist Fire Rescue Unit and Command Support Teams have also been deployed as part of the incident response.
Ambulance and Police at Scene
Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service and officers from the Metropolitan Police are on site, assisting with evacuations and providing medical treatment where needed.
At this stage, it is unclear how many people may have been inside the premises when the fire started or whether any injuries have been reported.
Public Advice
Residents and businesses in the area are being advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke in the air and to avoid the area.
A Spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said: Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been called to a fire on Richmond Road in East Twickenham.
The fire involves a mixed-use building. The fire has been producing a large amount of smoke and people in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed at this time.
Road closures are also in place, including on Richmond Road, which is causing significant traffic disruption. Please avoid the area at this time.
The Brigade received the first of 34 calls at 4.38pm and Control Officers have mobilised crews from Richmond, Twickenham, Chiswick, Acton and surrounding fire stations to the scene. A 32-metre turntable ladder from Clapham Fire Station is also in attendance.
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