Dramatic photographs have emerged showing the extensive damage caused by a significant fire at a nursery in Catford, which brought a busy section of the area to a standstill overnight. The London Fire Brigade has now launched a full investigation into the incident, which saw around 60 firefighters deployed to tackle the flames.
Firefighters Scramble to Historic Building
The alarm was raised shortly after 6.30pm on Saturday, January 31, at The Rushey Green Nursery, a private childcare centre. In response, eight fire engines and approximately 60 firefighters were scrambled to the scene in Lewisham. Crews from across South East London battled the blaze for nearly three hours, working tirelessly to save as much of the historic building as possible.
Major Disruption and Safety Warnings
Residents in the vicinity were urgently advised to stay indoors as heavy smoke filled the skies above Lewisham, with the plume visible from other areas. The A21 was sealed off in both directions late into the night, causing significant traffic disruption, and drivers were told to avoid the area entirely to allow emergency services to operate safely.
The fire was eventually brought under control at 9.25pm, although firefighters remained on the scene for some time afterwards to dampen down hot spots and ensure the area was secure. Despite the intensity of the blaze, the London Fire Brigade confirmed in a statement that no one was injured in the incident, which is a relief given the potential risks.
Extensive Damage and Ongoing Investigation
However, the nursery sustained substantial damage, with half of its roof destroyed by the flames. Investigators are now working diligently to identify the cause of the fire, which has left the community in shock. The London Fire Brigade's probe will focus on determining how the blaze started and whether any preventative measures could have been taken.
This incident highlights the critical role of emergency services in responding to such emergencies in urban areas like Catford. The swift action of the firefighters likely prevented further damage and ensured public safety, but the aftermath serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities of historic buildings to fire hazards.
