A residential block was fully evacuated in Andover on 1 June 2025, after a large fire destroyed multiple flats
Several crews from across Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) responded to the incident following a report of smoke coming from the roof of the block shortly after 4pm. Around 13 fire appliances were at the scene at the height of the fire, with firefighters confirming that the building was “well alight”.
Assisted by crews from Andover, Winchester, Overton, Basingstoke, Alresford, Bishop’s Waltham, Eastleigh, Botley, Totton, Droxford, Tadley, Kingsclere fire stations and neighbouring partners, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS), firefighters utilised hose reels, main jets, and an ultra high-pressure lance to tackle the blaze.
Residents of the flats were evacuated, and there were no reports of any casualties, the fire service confirmed. HIWFRS also issued a warning to locals to drive carefully and keep doors and windows closed due to the amount of smoke in the area.
In an update later that evening, HIWFRS said: “Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to tackle the fire which spread to involve all three floors and the roof.”
The incident was eventually scaled back overnight with relief crews from Petersfield, St Mary’s, Fareham, Gosport, Cosham, Stockbridge, Whitchurch, Grayshott, Havant, and Rushmoor taking over. One crew remained at the scene the following morning to dampen down hotspots. As reported by Andover Advertiser, 19 flats are believed to have been affected by the fire, and 17 are without power or gas.
Incident commander, Group Manager Danny Miles said: “This was a significant incident for us with a large number of firefighters required to work into the night to contain and extinguish the fire affecting a residential block in Andover.
“Fortunately, there were no injuries suffered but we do recognise that sadly a number of people have lost their homes and belongings.
“We continue to work closely with the local authority, emergency planning teams, Sovereign Housing and the British Red Cross to support the residents who have been impacted, and we must thank the local church for providing rest centre facilities.
“It is also great to see the local community rallying round to support those affected, with essential provisions donated for those that have lost so much.”
As reported by ITV News, Richard Ward, Sovereign Housing Regional Director for localities, said: "We understand this is a very unsettling time for everyone affected and our team has been on site, working around the clock to support customers.
"We’ve already arranged temporary accommodation for those who need it and we’re providing food vouchers, plus a range of further financial support.”
HIWFRS confirmed that fire investigation officers will begin looking into what initially sparked the blaze.