Demolition work has commenced on a building in Pontllanfraith that was ravaged by a significant fire earlier this week. The blaze, which broke out on Monday evening, led to the closure of surrounding roads and prompted residents to keep windows and doors shut due to heavy smoke.
Key Takeaways
- Demolition work has begun on the fire-damaged building in Pontllanfraith.
- The fire occurred on Monday evening, affecting multiple businesses.
- The cause of the fire remains undetermined pending further investigation.
Fire Erupts in Commercial Premises
The incident occurred at a two-storey commercial building in the village of Pontllanfraith, near Blackwood. Fire crews were dispatched to the scene on Monday evening (February 9) and battled the flames throughout the night. The intensity of the fire caused substantial damage, with parts of the roof, particularly above Greens Fishing Tackle, collapsing.
Community Impact and Road Closures
As smoke billowed into the air, locals were advised to keep their windows and doors closed as a precautionary measure. Police cordoned off surrounding roads to facilitate the emergency response and ensure public safety. The affected business, Greens Fishing Tackle, expressed their devastation in a subsequent statement.
Demolition and Investigation
Caerphilly Council confirmed that roads around the site would remain closed to allow for the safe demolition of the structure. On Saturday, heavy machinery arrived, and demolition work began, reducing large sections of the building to rubble. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service stated on Wednesday that responsibility for the site had been handed back to the owner. A spokesperson indicated that significant works are required to make the building safe, including the removal of hazardous materials, before a thorough investigation into the origin and cause of the fire can commence. The cause is currently undetermined.
