West Hampstead flat fire: Dozens flee huge blaze at luxury London apartment building
Flames seen from miles across capital
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Around 100 firefighters are working to tackle a blaze at a block of luxury flats in north-west London.
Fifty people have been evacuated from the block in West Hampstead, London Fire Brigade said.
Meanwhile, two others on the first floor left the building with assistance from crews after concerns about the stability of the roof.
No one needed hospital treatment, London Ambulance Service said.
The London Fire Brigade said 15 engines were at the scene in Inglewood Road after being called at just after 1am on Thursday.
Pictures posted on social media showed the blaze visible for miles.
There are currently no reports of any injuries.
Station Manager Clainton Murray said: “Due to concerns that the roof could collapse inward, firefighters evacuated residents from the top floor.
“In addition fire crews assisted two people from the first floor and a number of other residents self evacuated from lower floors. Around 50 residents are using a local public house as a rest centre.
“The fire is also affecting the roof and in the early stages was very visible for miles around.”
The fire is believed to have started in a flat on the fourth floor, though the cause is currently unknown.
Mr Murray added: ”The London Ambulance Service has confirmed that no one was taken to hospital as a result of this incident.
“Firefighters have carried out salvage operations to save, where possible, residents’ possessions from water damage.”
The Black Lion pub in West Hampstead offered shelter for anyone affected by the fire.
A tweet said: “Anybody affected by the current fire in #WestHampstead our doors are open.
“Please anyone near stay safe. We will be here all night.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments