Massive Fire Engulfs Sidcup Building — 80 Firefighters Battle Blaze on Blackfen Road
A huge fire has broken out at a shop and flats under renovation in Sidcup, prompting a major emergency response this afternoon.
The London Fire Brigade received nearly 30 calls from concerned residents shortly after 1:10pm, reporting thick smoke and flames billowing from a property on Blackfen Road.
Fire Response:
- 12 fire engines
- Around 80 firefighters
- Crews from Eltham, Lee Green, Sidcup, East Greenwich, and surrounding stations
- A 32-metre turntable ladder deployed as a water tower
Video footage from the scene shows intense flames tearing through both ground and upper floors of the building. Part of a neighbouring roof is also reported to be alight.
🗣️ Station Commander Steve Howlett, speaking from the scene:
“This is a very visible fire which is producing a significant amount of smoke in the area. Please keep your windows and doors closed if you live or work nearby.”
ROAD CLOSURES & TRAVEL DISRUPTION:
- Blackfen Road CLOSED in both directions
- Multiple bus routes diverted
- Commuters are advised to avoid the area
Images and video shared on social media show towering plumes of smoke visible for miles across South East London. The structure affected is believed to be a shop with flats above, currently undergoing renovation.
CAUSE UNKNOWN:
Investigators are yet to determine what caused the blaze. There are no immediate reports of injuries, but the situation remains ongoing and dynamic.