Over 30 firefighters were mobilised to tackle a blaze that broke out on Witton Road in Aston, Birmingham, close to Villa Park football stadium. The alarm was raised shortly after 12:35pm on Monday, 27 July 2026, prompting a swift response from West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS).
Emergency Response Details
Six fire engines and a brigade response vehicle were dispatched to the scene, bringing the total number of firefighters to approximately 33. Crews came from Aston, Erdington, Ladywood, Handsworth, Highgate and Hay Mills fire stations. Upon arrival, they found a two-storey property comprising a retail unit on the ground floor and a flat above, with flames visible.
Road Closures and Public Safety
West Midlands Police implemented road closures on Witton Road between Bevington Road and Trinity Road to facilitate the emergency response and ensure public safety. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Despite the intensity of the fire, there were no reports of injuries or evacuations.
Ongoing Operations
A WMFS spokesperson provided an update on the incident: "Shortly after 12.35pm on Monday (27 July), we responded to Witton Road, Aston. This was a fire in a two-storey property, comprising a retail unit and a flat." The spokesperson confirmed that six fire engines and a 4x4 brigade response vehicle attended from multiple stations. "Witton Road was closed from Bevington Road to Trinity Road whilst we worked at the scene. Four crews remain in attendance, damping down hotspots."
Cause Unknown
As of the latest update, the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Firefighters are expected to remain on site for several hours to monitor for any re-ignition. West Midlands Fire Service has not yet released further details about the extent of damage to the property. The incident serves as a reminder of the rapid response capabilities of the fire service in protecting properties near major landmarks like Villa Park.
