Full Breakdown
Major Fire at Addenbrooke's Hospital Car Park
12/14/2025, 9:07:37 PM
Incident Overview
On December 13, 2025, a significant fire broke out in the multi-storey car park at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, affecting approximately 12 vehicles on the second floor. The incident was reported at 4:16 PM GMT, prompting a response from over 30 firefighters from Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Essex, and Hertfordshire. The fire was declared a "major incident" due to its scale and the number of emergency services involved.
Response and Containment Efforts
Fire crews worked diligently to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. By the evening, the fire had been extinguished, and firefighters remained on-site to monitor for hotspots and ensure the area was safe. Road closures were implemented around the hospital, affecting Robinson Way, Puddicombe Way, Adrian Way, and Richard Howe Way, to facilitate emergency operations.
Impact on Hospital Operations
Despite the fire's severity, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust confirmed that there were no injuries reported among staff or visitors. The hospital's emergency services continued to operate normally, and patient care was not affected. However, the main car park (Car Park 1) was closed indefinitely following a structural assessment that revealed damage. The Trust advised visitors to use alternative transport options, such as the Trumpington or Babraham Road Park and Ride, and to allow extra time for their journeys.
Official Statements
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the fire, stating, "We are sorry for the inconvenience this has caused and thank you for your understanding." They also assured that they were working closely with fire services to manage the situation and support those affected.
Investigation into the Cause
A fire investigation is set to take place to determine the cause of the blaze. The Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service indicated that an assessment would be conducted once it is deemed safe to do so. They thanked the public for their patience during the incident, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of multiple fire services in managing the fire.
Criticism and Community Response
Local residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to smoke from the fire. Some community members expressed concerns about the fire's impact on hospital access and the potential for future incidents, given the high volume of vehicles and visitors at the hospital.
Conclusion
The fire at Addenbrooke's Hospital car park has led to significant disruptions, particularly regarding parking availability. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the cause of the fire, while hospital officials continue to manage the situation and provide updates to the public. The Trust remains committed to ensuring that patient care and services are maintained despite the challenges posed by this incident.
