A major fire erupted at the world-renowned BBC Television Centre in White City on Thursday afternoon, casting a dramatic plume of dark smoke over the West London skyline and prompting a large-scale emergency service response.
The London Fire Brigade confirmed it dispatched a significant contingent to the scene, with ten fire engines and over seventy firefighters working tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. The fire was located within the complex's iconic central courtyard area.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as emergency services swiftly cordoned off the area. Thick, black smoke could be seen for miles, causing concern for local residents and commuters. The cause of the fire is not yet known and investigations are ongoing.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade stated: "Firefighters have been working hard in difficult conditions to bring the fire under control. The blaze was located in an exterior area of the building. There have been no reports of any injuries at this stage."
The historic Television Centre, a landmark of British broadcasting, was the BBC's main headquarters for decades. Although the corporation has since sold the site, it remains a working television studio for other production companies and contains private apartments, raising immediate concerns for the safety of residents and staff.
The building's rich history and cultural significance added a layer of gravity to the incident, with many expressing relief that the swift action of firefighters prevented a greater tragedy and protected the architectural icon.
