Nottingham’s historic cigarette factory may be demolished after firefighters have struggled to put out the blaze.
The fire started on Monday afternoon and has burned continuously since then, despite torrential rain and the firefighters’ best efforts.
Around 60 firefighters from Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire are tackling the fire but are unable to enter the building due to hazardous conditions. Three aerial ladder platforms are assisting the firefighters with their work.
Vicky Brown, Communications Manager for Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are going to demolish parts of the building so the firefighters can gain access to the fire. Then we’ll see how it goes but we may have to demolish the whole thing.”
- The Player’s building has been around since 1884.
- Traditionally one of Nottingham’s largest employers.
- John Player and Sons’ cigarettes originally produced there.
- It has recently been developed into student accommodation.
Group Manager Chris Clark said: “At this point, as with any building that has been subjected to this level of fire,
“there is a risk that some areas of the building may collapse
and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is working closely with the relevant experts and structural engineers to ensure this is done in a controlled manner.
“We are very aware and concerned of the impact this is having on the local community and we are working closely with our partner agencies to ensure the impact of this is kept to a minimum, with the safety of local people, our firefighters and all those involved in dealing with the incident being our number one priority.”
At least 24 students have been forced to move to alternative living arrangements whilst the fire remains active. Vicky Brown added that the students would remain re-homed for the imminent future until the situation changes.
The fire has deposited large amounts of smoke across Nottingham, with strong winds blowing it towards the city centre.
This has caused air quality to drop to ‘unhealthy’ levels according to the Department for Environment and rural affairs.
Several roads have been closed around the area and there remains heavy traffic. The police are asking people to avoid the area if at all possible.
