Home to be demolished after ‘inferno’ tore through Walthamstow

Around 30 properties were damaged when fire spread through three streets in East London

After a devastating fire tore through three streets in Walthamstow, one home is set to be demolished after becoming a ‘public safety risk’ due to severe damage.

As many as 125 firefighters and 25 fire engines were sent to Shernhall Street, Vallentin Road and Wood Street after a blaze broke out at the railway embankment at 6.27pm on Sunday, July 12. The fire damaged 30 properties, with dozens of gardens ruined, yet the damage was not as severe as at a Shernhall Street property, which was hollowed out by the flames.

The London Fire Brigade managed to get the blaze under control by around 10.30 pm that same night. The disruption to residents and TFL passengers continued into this week.

TFL have suspended part of the Weaver Line, between Hackney Downs and Chingford, for “urgent repairs” to the track, and it is likely to remain closed until Thursday, July 16.

Network Rail has now confirmed that the severely damaged property on Shernhall Street was demolished last night, Tuesday, July 14, due to the ongoing risk it was posing to public safety.

A Network Rail Spokesperson said: “Railway teams are continuing to carry out work in Walthamstow following the lineside fire on Sunday, 12 July. We know this has been a very difficult time for those whose homes have been affected and are in touch with residents and the local MP. We are continuing to provide as much information and support as we can.

“The fire caused significant damage to one property next to the railway. The extent of the damage and the risk of collapse and public safety risk meant we had to demolish the building last night (Tuesday, 14 July). To protect public safety, we needed to carry out this work immediately.

“We are extremely mindful of the impact this incident is having on all involved and in the local community and are continuing to keep them informed and supported in the coming weeks. “