Fire crews tackle blaze at former Newcastle University student accomodation
Northumbria Police say they are treating the incident as arson, and have arrested one man
Last updated 8th Jun 2023
Fire crews are currently tackling a large blaze in Heaton - with several roads in the area cordoned off.
The blaze broke out at the Grade 2 listed Cochrane Park sports centre on Etherstone Avenue this afternoon.
A statement from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue says;
"We are currently attending a large fire at residential accommodation block on Etherstone Avenue in Newcastle.
"We have eight appliances on scene and our two Aerial Ladder Platforms (ALP) to bring the blaze under control.
"We ask that people please avoid the area and if you are a resident in the area, keep your windows and doors closed.
"This is an ongoing incident and we will provide updates where we can."
Northumbria Police are also in attendance, and say they have arrested one man.
They are investigating the cause, and currently believe it is arson.
A spokesperson from the force said;
“Just before 2.30pm today (Thursday), police received a report of a fire at the old Henderson Hall on Etherstone Avenue, Newcastle.
“Police and colleagues from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are currently on scene and a cordon is in place.
“At this time the incident is being treated as suspected arson and police have arrested one male.
"Etherstone Avenue is closed and a diversion is in place. Please avoid the area and use alternate routes where possible.
"We'd also ask residents in the area to keep their windows and doors closed at this time."
A Tweet from the North East Ambulance Service said;
"Our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) is on standby at an on-going incident in Newcastle, should our fire service colleagues need us.
"Please follow @Tyne_Wear_FRS's advice by staying away from the Heaton area, and keeping your doors and windows closed if you live nearby..."