By Mal Butler
Firefighters worked through the night to save the historic Ryde Town Hall after a fire, thought to be started deliberately, started in the derelict building at around 11pm on Wednesday.
The quick response of the fire service almost certainly saved the building in Lind Street from total destruction. The fire started on the middle floor, with most of the damage affecting the rear of the building.
The main fire was extinguished at around 3am, but firefighters remained on scene. The road was reopened at around 8am yesterday morning (Thursday).
The hall has been derelict for years and local residents have feared for its future. Ryde Neighbourhood Board (RNB) had considered buying it; however last month decided against the purchase. An independent report said: “Expert opinion cautioned that acquiring the building whose condition is not fully understood and without a viable plan for its repair and re-use is a high-risk strategy.” The current owner of the building had not permitted internal inspection of the building’s condition.
RNB are overseeing Ryde’s Pride of Place funding of £1 million a year for the next 20 years.
A Fire Brigade spokesman said: “Around 35 firefighters from across the Island were called to a derelict building blaze in Ryde at 11.30pm after a large number of emergency calls.
“Crews from Ryde, Newport, Sandown and Shanklin attended. The fire had broken through to the roof of the building when fire engines arrived.
“Firefighters tackled the flames using hose reels and jets, whilst the public were asked to stay away from the scene. With the fire under control, the incident was scaled back shortly after 3am.
“Relief crews from Cowes and East Cowes continued to monitor the building, dampening down remaining hotspots and firefighters left the scene shortly after seven o’clock.
“One crew returned later to reinspect the building checking for further hotspots. Police were informed as it is believed the fire was set deliberately.”
Local councillor, Reuben Locke, described the fire as “a disgusting criminal act” and said that a group of youths had been seen entering and leaving the building. He paid tribute to the firefighters, and said police are investigating as a matter of urgency.
Isle of Wight Observer