'Suspected arson' as five fire crews attend Dudley blaze at disused pub near school - roads are closed and locals urged to avoid the area
A road has been closed after a suspected arson attack at a former pub premises near Dudley.
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Simms Lane, Netherton, has closed following the blaze near homes and a school.
Emergency services rushed to the scene to reports of the blaze at around 12.50am on Friday, with six crews being dispatched to the road.
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Simma Lane was quickly closed while fire service personnel battled the blaze, with the fire service urging nearby residents to 'close their windows and doors'.
The Link Academy Netherton also sits on Simms Road, however, it is unknown the fire relates to the school.
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesperson said: "We have five crews in attendance at a fire on Simms Lane, Netherton.
"Simms Lane is currently closed. As a precaution, if you live nearby, please keep doors and windows closed due to smoke in the area. Avoid the area, where possible."
A further four fire crews were also ain attendance to the nearby Halton Street, Netherton, with the fire service the crews were responding to the blaze.
A spokesperson added: "We have four number crews in attendance at Halton Street, Netherton, where they have responded to a fire.
"Please avoid the area, where possible."
West Midlands Police have confirmed that an investigation has launched into the blaze, adding that they are treating the incident as 'suspected arson'.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We were alerted by West Midlands Fire Service to a fire at a derelict pub on Simms Lane, Netherton, at around 12.50am today.
"It is being treated as suspected arson, and anyone with information has been asked to get in touch, quoting 20/257082/25."
West Midlands Fire Service and Ambulance have been approached for more information relating to the incident.
