A fierce blaze erupted on Tuesday morning beside the Beckenham Odeon cinema in Bromley, attracting a response from approximately 70 firefighters who battled the flames for two-and-a-half hours. Eyewitness accounts reveal that local businesses had previously alerted Bromley Council about significant fire safety risks associated with the high street building. Chris Penfold, a local business owner, expressed that it was merely a matter of time before a fire occurred, citing an unsafe wooden structure on the roof.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police, which has prompted Bromley Council to remain silent on the matter. Just days prior to the fire, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) inspected the building, although the specifics of their findings remain undisclosed due to the ongoing investigation. One anonymous business owner mentioned they had reached out multiple times to both the council and the fire brigade regarding their concerns, asserting that their complaints were met with inaction.
In light of the fire, Bromley Council is also looking into reports that a food outlet within the building had previously received a prohibition notice due to fire safety concerns, compelling the establishment to cease operations. Local MP Liam Conlon thanked the LFB for their prompt response to the incident and communicated with Bromley Council to assist residents affected, including the provision of temporary accommodation if necessary.
Meanwhile, the Odeon cinema has been temporarily closed due to the incident but has partially reopened on Wednesday, with certain screens remaining closed as a precaution. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from the fire, casting a shadow on broader fire safety issues that could pose risks to the community.
This alarming event raises important questions about the adequacy of current fire safety measures and the responsiveness of local authorities when concerns are raised by the community.
