Blaze Breaks Out in Reading Town Centre
A huge fire has erupted in Reading town centre, with thick smoke and flames lighting up the skyline. The blaze is reportedly burning atop a building under construction near the station, although the cause is still unknown.
Emergency Services Rush to Scene
The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has urged locals to steer clear of the area to give emergency crews clear access. In a social media alert, they said: “We are currently attending an incident on Garrard Street, Reading. Please avoid the area if possible to allow emergency services clear access to the scene. If you use public transport in the area, please find an alternative route. Further updates will be provided shortly.”
Firefighters from Caversham Road, Wokingham Road, Wokingham, and Whitley Wood fire stations are battling the blaze at the high-rise construction site.
Major Incident Declared, Evacuations Underway
At just after 5pm on Friday, the situation escalated as a major incident was declared on Friar Street due to the spreading flames. 1 confirmed precautionary evacuations are underway but, thankfully, no injuries have been reported so far.
Residents nearby have been advised to keep windows and doors shut as a safeguard against smoke and fumes.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Warning
As of the latest update, all workers at the construction site have been accounted for. Fire crews continue to fight the fire aggressively. The public is strongly advised to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work unimpeded.
The Garrard Street blaze has caused major disruption across Reading’s town centre. Authorities are prioritising public safety and will provide more updates as the story develops.
