Somerset House Narrowly Avoids Major Disaster
London's Somerset House narrowly avoided a major disaster akin to the Notre Dame fire. Thanks to quick actions by staff and firefighters, damage on 17 August was contained to the roof and part of the west wing. No injuries were reported, and while phased reopening has started, reconstruction might take years.
London's Somerset House narrowly avoided a major disaster similar to the Notre Dame fire, according to its director Jonathan Reekie.
On 17 August, about 125 firefighters and 20 fire engines responded to a fire that damaged the roof and part of the west wing of the historic arts venue on the Strand.
The quick actions of the staff and the London Fire Brigade prevented further damage, and no injuries were reported.
The venue has begun a phased reopening, though reconstruction could take years.
Priceless artworks in the Courtauld Gallery were unharmed, and most of the venue’s facilities and events will resume soon.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the London Fire Brigade.
On 17 August, about 125 firefighters and 20 fire engines responded to a fire that damaged the roof and part of the west wing of the historic arts venue on the Strand.
The quick actions of the staff and the London Fire Brigade prevented further damage, and no injuries were reported.
The venue has begun a phased reopening, though reconstruction could take years.
Priceless artworks in the Courtauld Gallery were unharmed, and most of the venue’s facilities and events will resume soon.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the London Fire Brigade.
