More than 90 firefighters tackle huge blaze at Hockley wedding venue
More than 90 firefighters were battling a huge blaze at a wedding venue on Wednesday evening.
Some 14 fire engines were at The New Bingley Hall in Hockley Circus, Birmingham. Residents were asked to avoid the area, specifically Whitmore Street, while it was closed to allow crews to tackle the blaze.
The fire service was first made aware of the incident at 4.19pm, with a crew from Landywood the first to arrive, followed shortly by two crews from both Handsworth and Aston.
The New Bingley Hall describes itself as the "biggest and boldest venue in the West Midlands" which caters for Asian weddings, birthday celebrations and corporate events.
Video footage from the scene showed black smoke pouring out of the top of the building at around 7pm.
Those in the area reported seeing the smoke thicken and flames beginning to emerge from the roof of the premises.
One local commented it: "looks like the whole of Birmingham fire service is at the incident".
The force has also been seen making use of hydraulic platform to tackle the blaze with hoses from above.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Fire Service said: "14 fire engines, four brigade response vehicles, a hydraulic platform and over 90 crew are currently tackling a severe fire in Hockley Circus, Birmingham, the first arriving in under five minutes.
"Please avoid the area. Whitmore Street is currently closed and other roads are affected."
Drivers were also urged to leave more time for journeys near to the incident.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Roads said: "A fire has broken out on this route in the region around The New Bingley Hall.
"Emergency services are on scene – allow extra time for your journey and consider using alternative routes."
