Calderdale Council teams are supporting the emergency response to a major building fire in Hebden Bridge town centre.
The fire broke out in La Perla restaurant in the Burlees building on Hangingstones Road in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday 2 August).
A range of Council services are working together with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and the local community to keep people safe and informed.
To support the partnership response, Council officers have been on site all morning and are on hand at Hebden Bridge Town Hall, which is open to provide support and shelter to anyone affected by the incident.
Fortunately there have been no casualties, but due to heavy smoke, four homes have been evacuated from nearby homes to the rest centre at Hebden Bridge Town Hall.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is advising people to avoid the area and to keep windows and doors closed due to the smoke.
People are asked to avoid the whole of Hebden Bridge town centre as the emergency response to the fire continues, and the following road closures remain in place until further notice:
- Old Gate junction of Market Street
- Bridge Gate junction of Keighley Road
Albert Street, Hope Street and Crown Street have now reopened after being closed this morning due to the incident.
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Leader, said:
“This is a major incident that I know will be terrifying for the residents and businesses based in or near the Burlees building. My heart goes out to everyone affected.
“With their amazing kindness and community spirit, local people and organisations have once again shown resilience in challenging circumstances, rallying around to support each other as a partnership.
“Our teams have been working since the early hours, helping to keep people, roads and buildings safe.
“We know that many people will be feeling upset and worried at this time, so we have a range of Council teams in the area and at the Hebden Bridge Town Hall rest centre to provide support, advice and a reassuring presence.”
A fundraising page has been set up to support the businesses affected by the fire. To find out more and to make a contribution, please visit Fundraiser for Burlees House businesses(external link).