Fire engulfs derelict building in Nottingham city centre

A large fire at a derelict building in Nottingham city centre prompted a major emergency response on Sunday after witnesses reported hearing a significant explosion. The blaze, which sent a large plume of black smoke into the sky, began shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Curzon Street.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service stated it received the first call at 11:23 a.m. and dispatched ten fire engines to the scene. A substantial number of police vehicles and ambulances were also present. Officials confirmed the fire involved a derelict commercial building on Curzon Street, a location adjacent to student accommodation and near the Victoria shopping centre.

Authorities have established cordons around Huntingdon Street and Curzon Street and have closed Huntingdon Street in both directions. The incident has caused significant traffic disruption on surrounding roads, including Woodborough Road, Shelton Street, and St Anns Well Road. Police and fire services are urging the public to avoid the area.

As a precaution, residents from neighbouring buildings have been evacuated onto the street. Police warned those evacuated that further explosions were possible. One evacuated resident, Vedant...