News Summary
A significant fire erupted at the Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury, prompting emergency responses and raising fears about potential asbestos hazards. The blaze, which began in the historically significant Hangar 3, caused partial collapse and spread to adjacent buildings. Authorities advised locals to stay indoors due to smoke risks. Investigations into asbestos are ongoing, with police establishing safety cordons. This incident coincides with plans to develop the airfield into new housing, bringing attention to its historical significance and potential environmental risks.
Major Blaze at Historic Airfield Raises Concern Over Potential Asbestos Hazards
A shocking inferno erupted at the historic Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury, Wiltshire, late Thursday evening, prompting a swift response from emergency services and a warning for local residents. The fire ignited at approximately 6:38 PM in Hangar 3, a Grade II-listed structure, renowned for its historical significance dating back to World War I.
Residents on High Alert
As flames engulfed the building, local authorities quickly advised residents living in the vicinity to stay indoors and keep their windows closed. The alarm was raised over fears that harmful chemicals, particularly asbestos related to the age of the hangar, may be present in the smoke.
By 8:30 PM, the situation worsened when reports indicated that the structure had partially collapsed, leading to the fire spreading to another adjacent building. Alarmingly, the airfield, which is a designated scheduled monument, is recognized as a critically important archaeological site by the Government.
Firefighting Efforts Underway
The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service dispatched an extensive team from multiple locations, including Amesbury, Salisbury, and Ringwood, to combat the blaze. Firefighters employed both ground monitors and an aerial ladder platform to extinguish the flames, which affected two partially derelict buildings. A relief crew was even called in from Amesbury to bolster firefighting efforts in response to the rapidly evolving situation.
Investigations Into Asbestos Concerns
Authorities are conducting ongoing investigations into the suspected presence of asbestos due to the building’s age and condition. Asbestos exposure is a serious health concern, prompting officials to take additional precautions to ensure community safety. Wiltshire Police joined the emergency response team on-site, establishing safety cordons around the area to keep the public at a safe distance.
Public Responsibility in Crisis Situations
Despite the serious nature of the incident, reports surfaced of individuals obstructing emergency workers while attempting to take photographs of the blaze. The police were urged to remind the public of the importance of cooperating with emergency services during such critical situations.
Future Developments at Old Sarum Airfield
This fire comes on the heels of recently approved plans to develop the airfield site into a residential area with up to 315 homes. The planning approval faced considerable scrutiny but was ultimately granted due to the perceived benefits of revitalizing the area and repairing Hangar 3. This historic building had previously sustained damage from Storm Isha earlier in the year, highlighting the need for protection and restoration.
Hangar 3, once a training depot for day bombing raids during World War I, served as the School of Army Co-Operation by 1919. Now, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich history, brought into the spotlight by this recent fire.
Public Assistance Requested
In an effort to gather more information, Wiltshire Police have requested that anyone present near the airfield between 6 PM and 6:30 PM on April 17 reach out to them. The investigation aims to understand more about the circumstances surrounding the fire and any potential impact on public safety.
The combination of a historic site and potential environmental hazards has raised significant concerns among the community. The situation remains under close observation as more information is expected to emerge in the coming days.
