The fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by an electrical event in an extension lead being used on a balcony. The blaze damaged part of a three-room flat on the tenth floor and half of a three-room flat on the eleventh floor.
The incident occurred while the complex was still undergoing repairs from a previous fire on July 4, 2022, which had damaged the slanted roof of another block, Brouard Court. That fire had resulted in the rescue of around 120 people, with significant damage to a five-room flat on the 15th floor.
Josh Cope, a resident living two floors below the affected unit in Varney Court, expressed his concerns about safety in the building. His partner had called him in a panic when the fire started, and he returned home to find firefighters putting out the flames. Cope, who has lived in the flat with his partner and daughter for five years, said, “I’ve completely had enough, it’s just getting too scary. Part of me wonders if the building is safe.”
Cope claims that the incident has led the housing association, Moat Homes, to rehouse tenants of Varney Court in other areas, such as Sidcup, Blackheath, or Dartford. However, Cope is concerned about being relocated far from Bromley, where his work is based, as he would struggle with the cost of commuting.
Another resident, Paulin Ngon, who has lived in Brouard Court for four years, was shocked to learn of the fire upon returning from work. He expressed frustration that, despite the previous fire, safety measures had not been adequately enforced. Ngon now feels unsafe in his building and worries about the impact of repeated incidents on his ability to insure his flat.
A spokesperson for St Mark’s Square acknowledged the residents’ concerns and confirmed that no residents were injured in the fire. They assured that all safety systems functioned properly, allowing the London Fire Brigade to extinguish the fire quickly. Repairs are underway to address the damage, and the company is supporting the ongoing investigations.
Anne Brighton, Director of Neighbourhood Services at Moat Homes, emphasized that the housing association is focused on ensuring the safety and support of its customers. The company is working closely with Bromley Emergency Planning and the managing agent of the building to provide assistance and with the London Fire Brigade to determine the cause of the fire.
Crews from Bromley, Beckenham, Woodside, and surrounding fire stations attended the scene, and the fire was brought under control by 11:55 a.m. The London Fire Brigade is offering continued support to the community and has scheduled a post-fire safety audit at the affected building next week
