A significant blaze at a historic building in central Birmingham has caused major travel disruption, with key roads sealed off and multiple bus services diverted.
Fire Crews Battle Severe Blaze
The fire broke out shortly before 7.30am on Friday, 16 January, at the former HB Sale factory and offices. The Grade II-listed structure is situated at the junction of Constitution Hill, Summer Lane, and Hampton Street in the Hockley area.
West Midlands Fire Service deployed a substantial response, including ten fire engines, two brigade response vehicles, and a hydraulic aerial platform. The first crew arrived at the scene within four minutes of the call.
A spokesman confirmed the severity of the incident, stating: "This is a severe fire on the fourth floor of a five-storey building. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are tackling the fire." The fire is located above the Syriana restaurant at 1 Constitution Hill.
Major Transport Disruption in City Centre
The emergency response led to the immediate closure of Constitution Hill and Summer Lane to all traffic. This caused considerable rush-hour congestion and delays across the surrounding area.
National Express West Midlands confirmed that four of its bus services were impacted by the incident:
- Service 7
- Service 16
- Service 52
- Service 74
These services were placed on a diversion route via St Chads Queensway, Lancaster Street, Newtown Row, and New John Street West. While Summer Lane has since reopened, and the number 7 bus has returned to its normal route, Constitution Hill and Old Snow Hill remained closed, with ongoing diversions for other services.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the vicinity. West Midlands Fire Service advised: "Due to our presence in the area, there is considerable disruption. Please avoid the area and find alternative travel routes."
One Person Hospitalised, Cause Under Investigation
One man was injured in the fire. West Midlands Ambulance Service sent an ambulance, two paramedic officers, an emergency doctor, and its Hazardous Area Response Team to the scene after a call from the fire service at 7.50am.
A spokeswoman said: "One patient, a man, was treated for minor injuries before being conveyed to Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital." West Midlands Police, who were called just before 7.45am, reported the man was suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation.
The police added that the cause of the fire is now being investigated. Fire crews remain on site working to fully extinguish the blaze.
