Fire destroys Kingston Market stalls

A fire erupted in Kingston Market Place in the early hours of Tuesday, October 6, destroying a number of market stalls and affecting the frontage of nearby properties. Eight people were evacuated by police from the scene, but no injuries were reported. The London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police are investigating the cause of the blaze.

Incident Details

The fire began around 4:30am. Four fire engines and approximately 25 firefighters attended the incident, which was extinguished by 6:08am. Police were called to the scene by the London Ambulance Service at 4:49am. A cordon was established while emergency services worked to determine the cause.

Impact on Businesses and Community

Kingston Market Place, which has a history dating back to the early 1200s, is home to over 20 permanent stalls that operate daily. Following the incident, Kingston Council confirmed that businesses located within the cordoned-off area will be unable to trade. This closure will remain in effect until further notice, pending the outcome of the investigation.

A spokesperson for Kingston Council stated, "London Fire Brigade attended a fire at Kingston Market Place in the early hours of Tuesday 6 October. There were no injuries but the fire damaged several market stalls and businesses. Due to the incident, the Market Place is currently cordoned off. Businesses within the closed-off area will not be trading until further notice while a London Fire Brigade and Met Police investigation is underway."