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The future of Chiltern Firehouse – regular host to celebrity parties and entertainment industry events – is unclear following a fire causing widespread damage on February 14.
BBC News reports on the extent of the damage caused by burning wood falling from a pizza oven, and quotes architect Harriet Pillman saying the initial stages of recovery work would take at least a year, and it could be three years before the famous haunt is ready to re-open.
The former fire station, built in 1889, was converted into a 26-suite hotel and restaurant in 2013. Such an extended closure, it is feared, could have a negative knock-on effect on other local businesses.
The building was evacuated following the fire, and no one was harmed.
Andre Balazs, owner of Chiltern Firehouse, said in a statement: “Earlier this evening, a fire broke out at Chiltern Firehouse. We are grateful to confirm that no one was hurt, and our guests and staff safely evacuated. The fire has now been fully contained.
“It is with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation that we watched a remarkable 120 fire fighters from over 14 stations rapidly descend on what they told me was a hugely sentimental building for so many of them. We know in fact one of those who rushed to the Chiltern Firehouse this evening had been stationed in the building when it was a fire station 30 years ago. I am truly grateful to all of them as I am sure that this is not the Valentine’s Day evening they had in mind.
“As of now, as this is still a live situation we do not have confirmation of what may have caused the fire, but the fire services are investigating. In the meantime, the Chiltern Firehouse will remain closed until further notice.”
