West Street in Erith shut down after blaze breaks out above supermarket
Fire Erupts Above Supermarket, Road Closed
West Street in Erith is closed both ways this afternoon after a fire erupted in a building above a supermarket. London Fire Brigade crews rushed to the scene following reports around 4:00 PM. Thick smoke poured from the upper floors, forcing a full road closure for public safety.
Firefighters Race to Control Flames
At least four fire engines and multiple London Ambulance Service units are battling the blaze. A Fire Brigade spokesperson confirmed:
“We were called to reports of a fire in a building on West Street, Erith. Crews are currently tackling the blaze and working to ensure the safety of surrounding properties.”
Traffic Chaos and Evacuations
- The West Street closure is causing heavy traffic delays in Erith town centre.
- Drivers are being diverted via Bexley Road and Fraser Road.
- Local bus routes are disrupted; TfL urges passengers to check before travelling.
- The supermarket and nearby buildings have been evacuated as a precaution.
- Paramedics remain on standby, though no injuries have been confirmed yet.
Eyewitnesses Describe Dramatic Scene
“I saw smoke coming out of the upstairs windows. Firefighters arrived really quickly, and they’ve been working hard to stop it from spreading,” said a local shop owner.
“There was a lot of confusion at first, but the area has been cleared, and emergency services are handling it well,” added a passerby.
