An investigation is underway after a fire ripped through a historic former community hall in Enfield, North London, last night (July 5), destroying its roof. Addison House, located on Addison Avenue in Southgate, caught fire at approximately 6:40pm, prompting nearly 50 calls to emergency services.
Firefighters battle blaze for hours
Firefighters from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) scrambled to the scene as the blaze took hold of the building's roof. Photos from the scene show charred wooden timbers lying in ruin as crews worked to tackle hot spots. The fire was brought under control shortly after 10pm, and no injuries were reported.
Station Commander Will Thompson said: "The fire produced smoke that affected the local area, and residents nearby were advised to keep their windows and doors closed where possible." He added that one of the brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders was deployed as a water tower, allowing crews to tackle the flames from above.
Multiple fire engines respond
Eight fire engines from stations across Southgate, Barnet, Tottenham, Edmonton, Finchley, and surrounding areas attended the scene. The LFB is now working to identify the cause of the fire.
Addison House, built in the mid-1930s, is believed to have originally served as a community hall under the now-defunct Southgate Council. According to Enfield Council, the building has more recently been used by children's services.
