Massive Blaze Tears Through Abandoned Henley College in Coventry
A huge fire tore through the disused Henley College building on Henley Road, Coventry, on the evening of Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Thick black smoke billowed across the city skyline, causing alarm among locals.
Firefighters Battle Fierce Flames on UK’s Hottest Day
The West Midlands Fire Service deployed 12 fire engines and over 60 firefighters to tackle the raging blaze. The fire rapidly engulfed the roof of the empty college building. Emergency crews cordoned off the area and urged residents to keep doors and windows shut due to heavy smoke.
Videos shared on social media showed dramatic flames lighting up the evening sky, sparking widespread concern in nearby communities.
Cause Still Unknown as Police Confirm No Injuries
Fire investigators are still probing the cause of the fire. It remains unclear whether it started accidentally or was deliberately set. Police have not reported any injuries or arrests linked to the incident so far.
Background and Rising Fire Risks Amid Record Heat
- Henley College, founded in 1964, was a long-standing further education institution in Coventry.
- It merged with City College Coventry in 2017 to form Coventry College, with the Henley campus left vacant and slated for redevelopment.
- The blaze erupted on the UK’s hottest day of the year, with a high of 24.9°C recorded in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire.
- The Met Office warns that rising temperatures could fuel more fires, especially in urban areas with dry vegetation and abandoned buildings.
Local councillor Jane Edwards said: “This is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unused buildings, especially in warm weather. We’re grateful to the fire service for their rapid response.”
While no major incident was declared, emergency services remain on scene carrying out dampening-down operations and safety checks. The West Midlands Fire Service is urging anyone with information or footage of the early stages of the fire to come forward as the investigation continues.
