Fire in electrical sub station next to garden centre in Southend

Update at 2.30pm:

The fire was extinguished at 2.10pm.

Two electrical sub station buildings have been destroyed but firefighters worked quickly to stop the fire from spreading to nearby homes and the garden centre. There is some heat damage to a neighbouring property’s wall and guttering.

Station manager Russ Freeman said: “Crews worked really quickly to contain the fire. Unfortunately it has knocked out the power to some nearby homes and the garden centre but UK Power Networks are on scene. The road will be reopening shortly and residents can return to their homes and customers to the garden centre. 

“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience on this Bank Holiday Monday.”

The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental.

Our crews are at the scene of a fire in an electrical sub station next to a garden centre in Sutton Road, Southend.

Station manager Russ Freeman said:

“The fire has been contained and the garden centre and residents living nearby have been evacuated whilst we deal with the incident.

"The road is closed between Shopland Road and the roundabout near the industrial estate. Please avoid the area to help us deal with the incident and if you live nearby keep your windows and doors closed to avoid the smoke.

"We appreciate your patience and thanks to the garden centre team who are helping us to look after the people who have been evacuated.”