A fire at Somerset House in central London has been brought under control after approximately 125 firefighters were dispatched to combat the flames. During a joint press briefing with the arts venue, the London Fire Brigade (LF
stated that firefighters are now focusing on "extinguishing the remaining pockets of fire" in the roof area.
The fire ignited in the west wing shortly before noon, and the historic site will remain closed "until further notice." A spokesman confirmed that no artworks were located in the affected area. No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is currently being investigated. Dense grey smoke was visible rising above the iconic building, over the River Thames and nearby Waterloo Bridge.
Addressing the media, the LFB's assistant commissioner, Keeley Foster, described the firefighters' efforts as a "complex and technical operation." She mentioned that crews would stay on-site into the following day.
Somerset House's director, Jonathan Reekie, also spoke at the briefing, stating, "It's too early to assess the building's condition." He added that while the venue will stay closed until further notice, the Courtauld Gallery will reopen to the public tomorrow.
Earlier, Somerset House announced on social media that the venue was closed due to the fire, and all Saturday events were canceled. Following the evacuation, staff and visitors were seen gathered outside.
"Everyone is safe, and there are no valuable artefacts or artworks in the affected part of the building," Mr. Reekie told the BBC earlier. "For now, we just want to allow the London Fire Brigade to carry out their excellent work."
Due to the heavy smoke, the London Ambulance Service advised people to avoid the area and urged local businesses to keep their windows and doors closed. Arts minister Sir Chris Bryant expressed hope that the venue could reopen soon, noting that his department is in communication with them.
"I'm saddened to hear about the fire at Somerset House; this historic building houses some of London's premier galleries and creative spaces," he said.
Somerset House, located on the Strand in central London, serves as an arts venue. The Georgian-era buildings and courtyard were constructed on the site of a palace dating back to the Tudor period.
The venue also houses the Courtauld Gallery, an art museum featuring the Samuel Courtauld Trust's collection, including masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Among its notable works is Vincent Van Gogh's Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear, along with pieces by Impressionist artists Edouard Manet, Claude Monet, and Paul Cezanne.
Somerset House frequently hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and ice skating in its renowned courtyard.
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