Major fire destroys historic building in the heart of London’s gay scene
Around 100 firefighters are tackling a fire which has broken out in Dean Street, in the heart of Soho, the centre for gay life in London. Dean Street will remain closed all evening.
It is thought that the blaze began early this afternoon in the basement of a four-storey office building. Fire crews were called to the area at about 2pm, and could be seen climbing ladders into the building.
Sunny weather meant the streets were already busy and more people will be heading to the Dean Street and Frith Street bars after work.
Twelve fire engines are currently on the scene, although the cause of the fire is not yet known.
A fire brigade spokesman said: “Seventy-five percent of the building has been destroyed. It’s still an active fire.”
No injuries have been reported so far, but two ambulances could be seen beyond the cordoned-off area.
Media reports suggest that the entire building has been destroyed.
Yesterday, another blaze broke out in the area, in Newport Place. The fire began in the basement of a building housing restaurants and offices. No one was hurt.
Scroll down for a video of the fire.
