Fire crews tackle blaze at Smethwick's Victoria Suite building

Fire crews have been tackling a blaze at The Victoria Suite building in Smethwick overnight.

Smoke was seen billowing above the area, around Walkmill Lane, after the fire began yesterday afternoon (5 May).

More than 50 firefighters were called out at around 1.30pm, after reports of the fire at the Art Deco building, once a cinema and bingo hall.

West Midlands Fire Service said ten crews used two hydraulic aerial platforms to get the fire under control. A high-volume pump was also used, taking water from the nearby Cape Arm of the Birmingham Canal.

In their latest update on Monday morning (6 May), West Midlands Fire Service said: "Our crews remain on scene, working closely with the local council; police and other vital agencies to coordinate the re-opening of roads and shops.

"While some have now been re-opened, intermittent temporary closures may be necessary to move equipment close to the site or for safety reasons.

"Please ensure you follow any guidance or signage to keep yourselves and those working at the incident safe.

"Disruption is likely to continue throughout the day as our crews control the scene and monitor for hotspots."

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