Emergency services were called to an incident in Port Talbot on 24 April 2025, involving a significant blaze at a historic chapel that had been left derelict
At its height, six fire appliances attended the scene, including crews from Port Talbot, Morriston, and Neath fire stations. Firefighters used six water jets, including a turntable ladder appliance as a water tower, to extinguish the fire, and crews continued to monitor remaining hotspots into the early hours of the following day.
Footage published by BBC News shows billows of smoke surrounding the building and firefighters attempting to extinguish the flames from height.
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, which was supported by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, later reported that the fire had “severely damaged” the disused Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Station Road.
In the aftermath, Neath Port Talbot Council issued a statement regarding the structural safety of the building. A council spokesperson said: “On Friday (25th April 2025), the Council used emergency powers available to it under section 78 of The Building Act (Dangerous Building – emergency measures) and took action immediately in removing any loose materials from the building and erecting a steel fence safety cordon around the building. Building Control, assisted by the Council’s Structural Engineers, have made an initial assessment of the remaining masonry structure and are of the opinion that it is not in immediate danger of collapse.
“The Council is currently in dialogue with the building owner relating to further works required to secure the long-term safety of the building, and will monitor the building’s condition closely over the coming weeks. Whilst the cordon remains in place, there are currently no plans to close either Forge Road or Station Road.”
As reported by Swansea Bay News, two teenagers were arrested on suspicion of arson. A spokesperson for South Wales Police said:
“Officers investigating a fire at Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in Port Talbot town centre yesterday evening (Thursday April 24) have arrested two teenagers in connection with starting the blaze.
“A 14-year-old boy from Sandfields, Neath Port Talbot and a 15-year-old boy from Bryn, Neath Port Talbot have been arrested on suspicion of arson.
“This investigation is ongoing.”
(Photograph by Michael Jones and Station Manager Spencer Lewis)