Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service has confirmed that a fire at a derelict former care home on Skeavingtons Lane in Ilkeston is believed to have been deliberately started.
Fire crews were mobilised at 6.53pm after reports of a well-developed building fire. Wholetime and on-call crews attended the incident, with additional support from Heanor On-Call Fire Station and Eastwood Fire Station.
Firefighters used main line jets, thermal imaging cameras, ladders and ceiling hooks to extinguish the fire.
Following an investigation at the scene, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service confirmed that the fire is believed to be the result of deliberate ignition. Derbyshire Constabulary has been made aware.
There are no confirmed reports of injuries.
The building has been empty for some time and was the subject of a planning application submitted last year to redevelop the site into 28 affordable homes. There is no evidence to support speculation about any alternative use of the site.
🔗 Background:
Plans lodged to build 28 affordable homes at former Cotmanhay care home
https://ilkeston.news/news/planning/plans-lodged-to-build-28-affordable-homes-at-former-cotmanhay-care-home/
Photo: Gordon Birkin