Croydon Purley Way Fire Blamed on Vandals as Site Owner Denies Responsibility
A significant fire that erupted on Imperial Way off Purley Way in Croydon is suspected to have been ignited by vandals, according to one of the site's leaseholders. Koby Yogaretnam, who holds the lease, has stated he "would not be able to accept any responsibility" for the incident, attributing it to persistent antisocial behavior at the derelict location.
Fire Response and Investigation Details
The blaze broke out on the second floor of the long-vacant building behind the Costco shop on Purley Way shortly after 4 PM on Monday, March 2. In response, ten fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters were dispatched to 33 Imperial Way. The fire was brought under control by 10 PM, with no injuries reported, although crews remained on site overnight. Both the London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police are actively investigating the cause of the fire.
Notably, there was no operational CCTV on the premises at the time of the incident. Mr. Yogaretnam explained that cameras previously installed at the highest point of the building had been removed by intruders, with their absence discovered on Thursday, February 26. He mentioned that replacement cameras were scheduled for installation this week.
Security Challenges and Antisocial Behavior
Despite implementing security measures such as hoardings, security lights, and steel reinforcements over windows, Mr. Yogaretnam expressed frustration over ongoing issues. "The truth is that there has always been antisocial behavior," he said. "This is another instance of that. We put up hoardings, security lights, we have done everything." He added that even with on-site security, costs would be prohibitive, and he visits the site weekly due to living nearby.
The building, formerly a Sports Direct gym, has been empty for several years and has a history of attracting trespassers and fly-tippers. Neighbouring businessman Muhammad Asghar, owner of Imperial House Banqueting, raised the alarm and described frequent intrusions by youngsters from the Purley Way playing fields. "We are quite scared, because we have spent a lot of money on the business, building it up," he admitted, highlighting concerns for his wedding venue's safety.
Historical Issues and Future Plans
In early 2024, the site was exposed for extensive illegal dumping, leading to clearance and installation of hoardings by the current management, who lease from landlord Spark Properties Ltd. However, Spark Properties was fined £30,000 in November 2024 for failing to clear the site despite warnings. Mr. Yogaretnam noted that clearing the rubbish inadvertently made the site more attractive to intruders, leading to break-ins and even social media invitations for parties.
Originally, plans to convert the site into a 40-shop mini-mall stalled due to car access issues from Purley Way. New development plans are being formulated, with physical work slated to begin next week and contractors scheduled on site Monday to Friday as a preventative measure. The fire has caused damage to approximately 15% of the roof, an area already planned for replacement, but Mr. Yogaretnam remains optimistic, citing support from local groups like a disabled flying club.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on determining the exact cause of the fire, with Mr. Yogaretnam emphasizing the financial and time costs incurred from what he believes was an act of vandalism.
