Building fire near Asda being treated as arson by police

Police have confirmed an investigation has been launched after six fire engines responded to the incident in St Albans Road on Friday (March 18).

The fire service were alerted to smoke at the Lemarie Centre near the Dome Roundabout at around 5pm.

Firefighters were able to respond quickly with Garston fire station situated just next door. Police also attended and the area was cordoned off causing significant traffic delays.

The initial response to the fire. Credit: Zoe Tunstall

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue has confirmed the fire was on the second floor of the empty two-storey building.

The fire was put out just before 6pm and the response to the incident was completely scaled back by 6.45pm.

The following morning, police and forensics were pictured outside the Lemarie Centre with the fire being treated as deliberate.

A police spokesperson said: "Officers attended to assist at the scene while the fire was extinguished. No one was injured and the incident is now being investigated as suspected arson."

Police outside the derelict building on Saturday morning. Credit: Twitter/@nibsuk

Jamie Gwinnell was walking with his dog and father on Friday when he noticed the fire.

He told the Observer: "I saw black smoke leaving the top of a building and without hesitation I dialled 999.

"Herts Fire and Rescue were dispatched immediately from next door, where they immediately shut off the road leading to Asda and began to spray water through the window."

The fire service were called after smoke was spotted. Credit: Jamie Gwinnel

He added: "Whilst that occurred, the other crew began to find a way into the door which was secured shut. With little time to waste, they entered through the window, where thick smoke poured out, indicating the fire had spread far beyond just the roof of the building."

The building which police believe was deliberately set on fire. One of the windows was shattered. Credit: Stephen Danzig

Pictures show some damage to the outside of the property and a shattered window but the extent of the damage inside the property is unclear at this time.

Some fire damage to the rear of the building. Credit: Stephen Danzig

The building was formerly in use by the community, including charities and organisations.

It is owned by Watford Borough Council and the site has been earmarked for future community and residential use.

The council has been approached for comment.

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact police at herts.police.uk/report or on 101 quoting crime reference 41/22125/22.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.