Factory in arson attack is saved

A derelict Black Country factory that was wrecked by arson will not have to be demolished, it emerged today.

The four-storey Varsity building, in Foundry Lane, Smethwick, is no longer classed as structurally unsafe.West Midlands Fire Service originally deemed the building a risk after it was gutted on March 14.

At its peak, 70 firefighters were involved in tackling the blaze at the derelict factory, which is owned by Mr PS Talafair, of Albert Road, Handsworth, Birmingham.

Sandwell Council said today the building was not unsafe, but had been fenced off to stop members of the public getting too close.

During the arson attack, which started at 7.55pm, flames completely engulfed the building and a specialist pumping engine capable of jetting out thousands of gallons of water was called in from the Sheldon area of Birmingham.

Water was also taken from the nearby Birmingham Canal and a total of more than two million litres was used in the fight against the fire..

The blaze was caused by two separate pockets of fire in the building and West Midlands Fire Service group commander Mick Birch said the Varsity had been the target of arsonists before.

The building was last used as a pine furniture manufacturer. Pieces of old furniture were still inside the factory when it was set alight.