On the evening of October 15, 2023, a fire broke out at The Big Mill on Mill Street in Leek, Staffordshire, around 9:35 PM. The blaze quickly engulfed the entire building, which is a Grade II-listed structure over 165 years old, with drone footage revealing that the roof had collapsed.

The Big Mill, built in 1860, was one of the earliest large-scale mill buildings in the town, primarily serving the silk industry. However, it has been derelict since 2007, with its last use as a mill occurring in the 1980s. Recently, a planning application was submitted to convert the historic site into 55 apartments, highlighting its potential for redevelopment.

As firefighters from the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service battled the flames, the community watched in distress. Local resident comments reflected a sense of loss, with one stating, “It’s a shame the councils don’t let them get on and do something with these buildings, they just let them go to rack and ruin.” This sentiment underscores the frustration felt by many regarding the fate of historic structures in the area.

In the aftermath of the fire, an 18-year-old man from Leek was arrested on suspicion of arson. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident has raised concerns about the safety and preservation of such significant buildings.

Dame Karen Bradley, a local MP, expressed her sadness over the event, stating, “so sad to see the terrible fire at the Big Mill.” Her remarks highlight the broader implications of the fire for the community and the ongoing discussions about the future of derelict properties.

As the investigation continues, the impact of the fire on local heritage and community sentiment remains significant. The Big Mill, once a vital part of Leek’s industrial history, now stands as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced in preserving such landmarks.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the future of the planning application for redevelopment. The local community is left to grapple with the loss of a historical site that has been part of their landscape for generations.

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A fire broke out on the ground floor of Forsyth House, adjacent to Glasgow Central Station, at approximately 3:46 PM on March 8, 2026. The incident has resulted in the closure of Glasgow Central Station until further notice, causing significant disruption to rail services in the area.

Emergency Response

In response to the fire, more than 250 firefighters were deployed, utilizing 18 fire engines and specialist resources at the height of the blaze. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that three high-reach vehicles were also on the scene to combat the flames effectively.

Extent of Damage

The fire has caused extensive damage to Forsyth House, including the loss of its iconic dome. Local businesses, such as Willow Hair Salon and Sexy Coffee, have reported total destruction due to the fire. “We are absolutely devastated to confirm that the shop has sadly been destroyed in the fire,” stated a representative from Sexy Coffee.

Impact on Rail Services

As a result of the fire, no trains are currently running to or from the high-level platforms at Glasgow Central, leading to widespread travel disruptions. Road closures have also been implemented in the area surrounding the fire, further complicating access for emergency services and commuters alike.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with initial reports suggesting that lithium-ion batteries may have played a role. The Scottish government is actively involved in the recovery operation following the incident, emphasizing the importance of addressing safety concerns related to historic buildings.

Forsyth House, constructed in the 19th century, is part of Glasgow’s rich architectural heritage. However, the incident has raised alarms about the ongoing issues with the maintenance and safety of historic buildings in the city. Currently, there are 143 buildings on Historic Environment Scotland’s ‘at risk’ register, highlighting the vulnerability of Glasgow’s historic architecture.

Community Response

Local leaders have expressed their concerns regarding the fire and its implications for the community. First Minister John Swinney remarked, “There is a significant incident that has been dealt with here in the city of Glasgow and I’m relieved in all the efforts of our emergency services that there have been no injuries.” Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken added, “This is another reminder of just how important Glasgow city centre is to Scotland’s national life.”

Looking Ahead

As investigations continue, details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact cause of the fire. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved safety measures for historic structures in Glasgow, particularly as many buildings remain vacant and at risk of similar incidents.

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