Battersea Arts Centre Fire: The Show Goes On
£160k already raised in donations
Battersea Arts Centre has expressed "deepest gratitude" for donations, including £100k from Battersea Power Station, which have been pledged following the devastating fire on Friday.
A Battersea Arts Centre spokesperson said: "Thanks to the brilliant efforts of the emergency services the front half of the building was untouched and is safe. Battersea Arts Centre has been overwhelmed by the outpourings of support on social media and by the generosity of more than 600 people who have already donated more than £14,000 towards the building repairs. Every contribution counts, and those who wish to support at this difficult time can donate via the fundraising page set up by the National Fundraising Scheme."
Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters and officers were called to Friday's fire on Lavender Hill. Two aerial appliances - similar to cherry pickers - were used to fight the fire from above.
The fire affected the Grand Hall, which had been under refurbishment, and its roof. Firefighters managed to save half the arts centre.
Whilst an investigation takes place to uncover the cause of the fire and experts assess the full exent of the damage, Battersea Arts Centre is committed to operating as normally as possible. Shows and workshops, the Scratch Bar and The Bee's Knees indoor play space are running as usual.
Photo copyright: London Fire Brigade
Station Manager Matt Burrows, who visited the scene on March 18, 2015ave large parts of the building including the octagonal dome, which I'm told is priceless, and salvaged valuable art work."
Fire crews from Brixton, Lambeth, Kensington, Clapham, Chelsea, Norbury, Fulham and other surrounding fire stations attended the incident. No one was hurt in the blaze.
March 17, 2015