New video footage shows the extent of damage sustained by a building in Smethwick after a fire ravaged it over the bank holiday weekend.
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More than 50 firefighters rushed to Windmill Lane in Smethwick at 1. 34pm on Sunday after witnesses reported smoke billowing from the four-storey Art Deco building.
Dramatic footage taken as thick plumes of smoke billowed from the burning building as firefighters battled the raging blaze.
This led to several road and shop closures as 12 crews worked through the night to put out the cinema’s fireplace and disused bingo hall.
Firefighters later proved that flames had broken through the roof of the building and firefighters drew water from the Birmingham Channel Cape arm.
West Midlands Police closed several roads to traffic adding Windmill Lane, Cranford Street, London Street and Grove Lane, while the adjacent Windmill Park/Shopping Centre closed early Sunday due to smoke in the area.
By 7:30 a a. m. de m. this morning, firefighters had reduced their presence to just two crews to mitigate hot spots, a challenge made more complicated by the roof collapse.
An update from the fire branch shortly after 10 a. m. It read: “Our teams will remain on site during the day. The reopening of branches and roads has begun, but intermittent temporary closures may be required for safety reasons. Please respect any signage or guidance provided through those operating on the premises to ensure the protection of all.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “Windmill Lane will remain closed for the remainder of the day, advertising premises are now accessible. The cause of the fire is being investigated through the West Midlands Fire Service. “