A devastating fire in Maida Vale, West London, has left four flats uninhabitable and displaced around 100 residents after an electrical substation caught fire early this morning.
Massive Emergency Response to St John’s Wood Fire
Emergency services were called to Aberdeen Place, near St John’s Wood, at around 5:30am today (April 29), following reports of a large fire. London Fire Brigade (LFB) responded to over 170 emergency calls regarding the blaze.
More than 100 firefighters battled the fire, which erupted from a substation in Victoria Passage, spreading towards residential flats. A major incident was declared by London Fire Brigade but was stood down at 10:53am after significant progress in containing the flames.
Residents Evacuated Amid Ongoing Investigations
The blaze forced the evacuation of approximately 100 residents, many of whom were taken to Wharncliffe Gardens Community Centre. While some residents have now been allowed to return, others—including families from the four damaged flats—remain uncertain where they will sleep tonight.
Westminster City Council confirmed they are supporting around 40 displaced residents and have set up two rest centres to assist.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said:
The fire produced a significant amount of smoke. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed. Crews are using foam to suppress the flames at the transformer.”
Witnesses Describe Terrifying Scenes
Local resident Adele Dillon, 54, described waking up to find her curtains glowing from the flames:
Initially I thought it was my garden fence, but then I saw the flames licking the side of the house. It was terrifying.”
Another resident, Alice Bazzi, whose vulnerable mother first noticed the fire, said she called the fire brigade immediately:
“My mum woke me up, saying there was a crackling noise. We later saw smoke filling the area.”
Residents have expressed frustration over evacuation delays but praised the fire crews’ eventual handling of the dangerous situation.
UK Power Networks and Police Statement
A spokesperson for UK Power Networks confirmed that the fire was caused by a fault in substation equipment. Crucially, no power outages were reported despite the intensity of the fire.
The Metropolitan Police added:
We remain on scene supporting the London Fire Brigade and working with partners to determine the cause.
Public Safety Advice
Authorities are urging residents nearby to continue keeping windows closed while air quality monitoring continues. Fire crews are expected to remain at the scene throughout the evening to ensure the area is fully safe.
Key Facts:
- Location: Aberdeen Place, St John’s Wood / Maida Vale
- Time of incident: 5:30am, April 29, 2025
- Evacuations: Approx. 100 residents
- Properties impacted: 4 flats uninhabitable
- Power outages: None reported
- Emergency services: Over 100 firefighters, London Ambulance Service, Met Police
