Fire crews work through the night to tackle 'suspicious' blaze at the Guildhall

By Molly Pipe, Student Life Correspondent

‘Extensive’ fire at the historic building in the City Centre prompts evacuations.

Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for witnesses following a blaze at the Guildhall on Small Street.

Around 50 firefighters were called to the scene at 01:40 GMT on Sunday 15 March, and students were evacuated from nearby halls of residence.

The fire at the Grade II listed building is being treated as suspicious.

Detective Inspector Andrew Branch, of Avon and Somerset Police, said the fire ‘extensively damaged’ the building. Several floors collapsed into the basement and video footage shows that part of the roof has fallen in.

Firefighters tackled the blaze from outside following concerns about the building’s structural stability.

‘We are interested in speaking to anyone who saw anything of significance in the Small Street, Corn Street, Castle Park area between 11pm last night and 2.30am this morning,’ Branch said.

‘If you can help our investigation, please call 101 and give the call-handler log number 82 from 15 March.’

Adjacent roads were closed for around 12 hours, including Bristol Bridge and Baldwin Street. Nearby halls of residence include New Bridewell and The Courtrooms.

Featured image credit: Flickr / Tim Green

Have you been affected by the Guoldhall fire? Let us know!