Emergency services scrambled to the heart of St Ives on Tuesday afternoon following the dramatic collapse of a large external stairway, sending debris tumbling onto the street below.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 2:30 PM, sparked a major multi-agency response. Police, fire crews, and ambulance services were all dispatched to the scene on the iconic harbour front, a bustling area typically filled with tourists and locals.
Chaos and Swift Response on the Harbour Front
Eyewitnesses reported a loud crashing sound as the structure gave way. The stairway, which provided access to upper-floor flats, completely detached from the building, leaving a gaping hole and a pile of rubble blocking the pavement and road.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they were "aware of an incident involving a collapsed staircase" and were working to secure the area. The primary concern was to ensure public safety, cordon off the danger zone, and assess the structural integrity of the surrounding area.
Miraculous Escape as No Serious Injuries Reported
Despite the scale of the collapse, initial reports indicate a miraculous escape for the community. Authorities have confirmed that there have been no reports of any serious injuries.
"It is incredibly fortunate that no one was seriously hurt, given the location and timing," said one onlooker. The road has been closed to both vehicles and pedestrians, causing significant disruption in the town centre.
Investigation and Clean-Up Operation Underway
Structural engineers have been called to the site to investigate the cause of the sudden failure. The focus now turns to a complex clean-up operation and understanding what led to this alarming structural breach.
Local residents have been advised to avoid the area while emergency work continues. The full impact on the building's residents and the timeline for repairs remains unclear.
