A major fire has broken out at a derelict cinema site in Kingston, prompting a significant emergency response from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) this afternoon.
The blaze began at approximately 2:00pm on Sunday, March 16, at the old cinema building near Gala Bingo, located on Richmond Road, Kingston upon Thames.
Fifteen Fire Engines and Two Aerial Ladders Deployed
A total of 25 fire engines and two aerial ladder platforms have been deployed to the scene as smoke billowed from the structure. Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to surrounding properties.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick smoke rising into the air as emergency services cordoned off the area. Several roads in the immediate vicinity were closed to ensure public safety while firefighters tackled the flames.
London Fire Brigade Statement
The London Fire Brigade confirmed crews were dispatched from multiple stations across the borough and neighbouring areas due to the scale of the incident.
Firefighters in full breathing apparatus used main jets and aerial ladders to bring the fire under control.
As of now, there have been no reports of injuries, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Historic Site Draws Attention
The site, once home to a cinema and later adjacent to the Gala Bingo hall, has stood derelict for several years, raising concerns about fire risks and anti-social behaviour in the area.
Residents have long called for redevelopment or improved security around the disused structure, fearing incidents such as today’s.
Public Urged to Avoid Area
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the Richmond Road area while crews continue to work at the scene and ensure the area is safe.
Further updates, including traffic advisories and the outcome of the fire investigation, will follow as more information becomes available.
A Spokesman for London Fire Brigade said: Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters are tackling a fire at a disused building on Richmond Road in Kingston.
Station Commander Will Thompson, who is at the scene, said: “Crews are making steady progress in tackling the fire.
“There are road closures in place, and we urge people to avoid the area to help reduce disruption.
“The fire is producing smoke, so we advise local residents to keep their windows and doors closed.
“Two of the Brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladders are being used as observation towers, providing incident commanders with an aerial view to improve situational awareness and inform tactical decisions.”
The Brigade’s Control Officers took the first of 32 calls to the fire at 1424 and mobilised crews from Kingston, Surbiton, New Malden, Twickenham, Richmond and surrounding fire stations to the scene.
