Major Fire Engulfs Rushey Green Nursery in Catford, London

On the evening of January 31, 2023, a significant fire broke out at Rushey Green Nursery in Catford, Lewisham, London. The London Fire Brigade received the first reports of the blaze at approximately 6:40 PM and dispatched eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters to the scene. The fire was brought under control approximately three hours later, at 9:25 PM. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

London fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blazeFire rips through London nursery as dozens of firefighters tackle blazeHuge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the air

The fire severely damaged nearly half of the nursery's roof, a three-storey building that provides care for children aged three months to five years. Residents in the vicinity were advised to keep their windows and doors shut due to heavy smoke, and road closures were implemented, causing significant traffic congestion in the area. The A21 Rushey Green was closed in both directions between the A205 South Circular and Lewisham Hospital, affecting several bus routes as well.

London fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blaze

An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing, but as of now, the specific reasons for the outbreak remain unclear. The London Fire Brigade has stated that they mobilized crews from nearby fire stations, including Bromley, East Greenwich, and Peckham, to combat the flames effectively.

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the air

The nursery, which received a "good" rating from Ofsted during its last inspection, is a well-established institution in the community. Local residents expressed their shock and sadness over the incident, with some sharing their experiences on social media. Eyewitness accounts described the scene as alarming, with large flames and thick smoke visible from a distance.

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the air

The London Fire Brigade emphasized the importance of public safety during the incident, urging residents to avoid the area and adhere to road closure notices. A spokesperson stated, "Firefighters tackled a fire at a three-storey nursery where nearly half of the roof was destroyed by fire. There were no injuries reported."

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the airLondon fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blazeFire rips through London nursery as dozens of firefighters tackle blaze

While the response from the fire brigade has been largely praised, some community members have raised concerns about the potential impact on local families who rely on the nursery for childcare. The loss of such a facility could pose challenges for parents in the area.

London fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blaze

As the investigation continues, local authorities are expected to provide updates regarding the cause of the fire and any necessary safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Community meetings may also be held to address concerns and discuss the nursery's future.

London fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blaze

• "Firefighters tackled a fire at a three-storey nursery where nearly half of the roof was destroyed by fire." — London Fire Brigade Spokesperson

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the airLondon fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blazeFire rips through London nursery as dozens of firefighters tackle blaze

• "Very bad fire, I was trying to get through and could smell the smoke in my car." — Eyewitness

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the air

• "So sad to see, it was one well-loved and established nursery." — Local Resident

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the air

• "There is an active fire incident on Rushey Green at The Rushey Green Nursery. Please amend your journeys and expect delays." — James J Walsh, Councillor for Rushey Green

Huge blaze breaks out at London nursery as dozens of firefighters battle flames and thick smoke billows into the airLondon fire: Nursery engulfed in flames as dozens of firefighters rush to scene to tackle huge blaze