Ilford Gym and Restaurant Blaze Rages for Seven Hours – Forest Road Shut
Massive Fire Devours Ilford Gym and Eatery
A huge fire has been blazing for over seven hours at a gym and restaurant in Ilford, forcing Forest Road to close in both directions. The inferno broke out just before 2 AM on September 19, dragging around 80 firefighters and 12 fire engines to the scene.
Firefighters Battle Flames with High-Tech Ladders
As of 9:30 AM, London Fire Brigade confirmed a “small part” of the first floor is still alight in the two-storey commercial building. Crews from Hainault, Romford, Dagenham, Woodford and nearby stations are tackling the blaze. Firefighters are using 64-metre and 32-metre turntable ladders to douse flames from above.
Road Closures and Community Warnings
Forest Road remains shut between Fairlop Waters roundabout and Hainault Road. Residents and drivers are urged to steer clear until the fire is fully brought under control.
Smartphone Footage Aids Emergency Response
The brigade received six emergency calls and used live streams from bystanders’ smartphones for “better situational awareness.” Control officers watched live video feeds to help coordinate the firefighting efforts more effectively.
The fire’s cause is still under investigation. Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
