Official report from the London Fire Brigade or safety officers

Fire at Spectrum Building on Freshwater Road Raises Cladding Safety Concerns

Aug 26, 2024, 06:47 PM

A major fire broke out at the Spectrum Building on Freshwater Road in Dagenham, East London, leading to the evacuation of over 80 residents and hospitalizing two people. The building, which was undergoing the removal of non-compliant cladding, raised concerns about fire safety, echoing the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The fire, which started in the early hours, was brought under control by the London Fire Brigade with the assistance of more than 200 firefighters. The incident has sparked a debate on the urgency of addressing fire safety issues in residential buildings, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasizing the need for rapid action to remove dangerous cladding. An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, with the London Fire Brigade and safety officers expected to remain on the scene for several days.