Demolition work continues on historic Staffordshire mill after huge fire tears through building
Demolition work is continuing on a historic mill in Staffordshire after a huge fire ripped through the building.
Work began on Sunday (29 March) and is continuing today (Monday 30 March) after fears parts of the Grade II listed Big Mill in Leek could collapse.
A cordon has been in place since the huge fire began there on Friday evening (27 March).
Staffordshire Police said in a statement they were called at about 9.35pm to reports that the historic building was on fire.
Nearby residents were evacuated from their homes, but many have now been allowed to return.
An 18-year-old who was arrested on suspicion of arson following the fire has been released on bail while a police investigation continues.
No-one had been reported injured, according to Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
The service said today: “We are still the scene of a large fire on Mill Street, Leek, today (Monday 30 March) as demolition work continues.
“Mill Street will stay closed until demolition work is complete and the area is made safe.
“The gas supply was safely isolated yesterday, but we're still asking people to call the Emergency Gas Line if they notice a strong smell of gas. Call 0800 111 999 immediately.”
The Historic England website says the six-storey building was built in about 1860 and is an important example of a large-scale mill used in the silk industry.
A council report last year revealed that the six-storey Big Mill remained unoccupied and has planning permission to be converted into 34 flats.