Agencies
London
A fire at Somerset House in central London has been “limited” after around 125 firefighters were called to tackle the blaze.
In a joint press conference with the arts venue, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said firefighters are now working to “extinguish the final pockets of fire” located in the roof space.
The fire broke out in the west wing just before midday, and the historic landmark will remain closed “until further notice”. There were no artworks in that part of the building, a spokesman said.
There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Thick grey smoke could be seen billowing into the air from the landmark building, over the River Thames and nearby Waterloo Bridge.
Posting on X, Somerset House wrote: “Owing to a fire in one small part of Somerset House, the site is currently closed. “London Battle and other events today will not take place. We apologise for any inconvenience.”
Due to heavy smoke, the London Ambulance Service asked people to avoid the area and told local businesses to keep windows and doors shut.
Somerset House is on the Strand in central London and is currently used as an arts venue. The Georgian era buildings and square were built on the site of a palace dating back to the Tudors.
