The historic Big Mill, a Grade II-listed building in Leek, Staffordshire, was severely damaged by a major fire on March 27. The blaze broke out around 21:22 GMT and required six firefighting crews at its peak. An 18-year-old man from Leek has been arrested on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.
Key Takeaways
An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a major fire destroyed the historic Big Mill in Leek, Staffordshire. The blaze led to evacuations and road closures, with demolition work completed Tuesday afternoon.
- An 18-year-old remains on bail for suspected arson
- Demolition of structurally unsound building finished Tuesday
- Residents evacuated during the fire have returned home
- Petition launched opposing residential redevelopment at site
The building, constructed in 1857 according to BBC News, had been derelict since 2007 despite plans for redevelopment into residential flats. The fire led to evacuations and road closures, with a cordon remaining around the site for days while it was made safe. Demolition work began Sunday due to safety concerns after the building was deemed structurally unsound.
According to BBC News, all more than 100 evacuated residents have since returned home as of Tuesday afternoon. The demolition work at The Big Mill site has been completed, with crews withdrawing from the scene. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service will continue periodic re-inspections to ensure safety.
The fire has sparked a petition by Jordan Williams calling on Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Leek Town Council to oppose any residential development at the site according to BBC News. The petition claims the fire led to an 'irreplaceable loss to Leek's heritage' and residents are now 'deeply concerned' about possible redevelopment of the site.
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