Church Street fire lights up Preston skyline with crews rushing to scene

Crews have rushed to the scene of a huge fire in Preston.

The fire, which was first reported to Blog Preston by multiple witnesses at around 6.30pm this evening (November 12), is at a derelict building on Church Street.

Blog Preston can confirm it is a building behind the Old Dog Inn which is currently abandoned which is on fire.

A large amount of smoke is visible rising in the air and it is likely emergency services will close roads as they seek to battle the fire.

Witnesses told Blog Preston that the fire is ‘massive’ and expressed their concern.

The fire is in a building between Manchester Road and St John’s Place – with a large emergency services presence in Shepherd Street which runs behind the block of buildings known as ‘St John’s Row’ in Church Street. Full details of all road closures and smoke warning from fire service.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Four fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge and Blackpool, along with the aerial ladder platform were called to a derelict building fire on Church Street, Preston. Firefighters are using two jets to tackle the fire and remain in attendance.”

Church Street is being closed off by emergency services and drivers are being advised to find an alternative route. Buses are also being diverted.

A spokesperson for Preston Police said: “We are currently assisting Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service with an ongoing fire in Church Street in Preston.

“As a result we have had to close the area of Church Street and Manchester Road. Please avoid the area where possible.”

A Labour councillor for the Sharoe Green Ward, councillor Connor Dwyer, has called for ‘action and investigation’ into the city centre fires.

He said: “A derelict building behind the former Old Dog Inn on Church Street Preston is ablaze. Avoid the area.

“This is a deeply concern incident – the alarming incidence of fires in the city centre requires action and investigation.”

The block – known as St John’s Row – is due to be redeveloped as luxury apartments under plans which were given the go-ahead by planners in June.

Additional reporting, from the scene of the fire in Church Street, by Sophie Swain

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