Fire hit restaurant and flats may have to be demolished

Fire crews were still stationed at the scene in Albert Street yesterday, 24 hours after firefighters were alerted to the blaze at around 11.40am on Tuesday.

Harrogate Council’s building control officers and structural engineer visited the site yesterday, and scaffolding was erected to stabilise the building’s front and rear facade. A decision will be made on whether the building should be demolished when insurers complete their own evaluations.

It leaves the residents of the worst affected flats homeless and last night spending a second night in temporary accommodation, courtesy of agents Places for People.

Albert Street was cordoned off yesterday and some nearby businesses remained shut. Elsewhere, other firms are supporting residents by collecting cash, blankets, food and toiletries. NatWest bank, Holiday Inn, Vets4Pets and local churches are accepting donations.

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones said: “The fire on Albert Street is a hammer blow for the business and residents affected. Many of the businesses will be out of action for some time and the employees without jobs during that period.

“Around 13 families had to be re-housed overnight from flats in the area and I understand that the housing association that owns the properties will be assessing whether or not people can return to their homes. It seems likely though that some have lost their homes and belongings – a personal tragedy for them.

“The Council has been providing advice to the fire brigade on the structural damage to the buildings and are doing a more detailed assessment to understand whether the buildings will need to be pulled down.”

Staff were inside the restaurant in preparation for opening when the fire started in the kitchen. It grew in ferocity, spread to the first floor and caused fire damage to four flats above the restaurant and to the roof. Flats above the neighbouring Pizza Express were damaged by the smoke.

Police closed roads outside the building as thick smoke blew across the adjoining Station Parade. Taxis were unable to reach the train station and bus services were heavily disrupted. Nearby business premises were evacuated and closed early. Up to 90 firefighters and 18 fire engines were needed to bring the fire under control. A damping down operation continued yesterday and loose debris was removed from the building.

In a statement, the chief executive of Prezzo, Jonathan Kaye said he was thankful that no one was injured and applauded the actions of the fire service.

“Our primary concern right now is to secure the building and ensure it is safe,” he said. “Once that is done, we will be assessing the damage.

“We will assist the fire brigade with their investigation to establish the cause of the fire.

“Overall the most important factor is that there were no casualties as a result of this terrible incident.”

Asked if the chain was committed to reopening in Harrogate, a spokesman added: “A new Prezzo will definitely open on the site.”