Horror as huge fire rips through building on UK high street as locals told to stay inside
Eight fire engines and crews were dispatched to the scene.
The fire ripped through the building (Image: X)
Firefighters have rushed to a huge blaze at a historic club on a UK town’s high street. At 11.30 pm last night, emergency services scrambled to Northfleet in Gravesend as a fire ripped through Portland’s Factory club.
Kent Fire and Rescue: “Eight fire engines and a bulk water carrier are currently in attendance and crews are using main jets to extinguish the flames.”
Dramatic footage shows crews using a platform to douse the billowing fire from above, as the orange blaze lit up the night sky and threatened nearby buildings.
Terrifying photos from the scene show fire pouring out of the Grade II-listed building. There are concerns the building which dates back to 1878 may collapse.
Those living or working in the area were urged to close windows and doors. Some residents in Factory Road were evacuated.
Five fire engines remain at the scene and the B2175 High Street is shut in both directions, from Hive Lane to Granby Road.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said at 6am this morning: “Crews are making good progress, five fire engines, and a height vehicle remain in attendance. Please share this information with any loved ones in the area who may be affected but do not have access to the internet.”
Kent Highways wrote on X: “Northfleet, B2175 High Street: Road closed between London Road and A226 Thames Way due to building fire and risk of building collapse. Please use an alternative route and expect delays in the area.”
Distraught locals rushed to Facebook to express their sadness.
One person wrote on Facebook: “That’s the end of that then. One of the last remaining pieces of Northfleet High St’s history.”
Another wrote: “We’re opposite it – it’s a huge fire.. can’t see how the building can survive this.
“Hopefully whoever is responsible will be prosecuted and no fire crew are injured trying to contain it.”
Also known as The Factory Club, the building was built by cement manufacturer Thomas Bevan. Although it has been empty for more than 30 years, the property was once a hub for the area and used to have its own outdoor pool and a stage.
