Residents of Pantside in Newbridge have been left reeling after flames swept through five properties on Tuesday afternoon.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service received the emergency call at approximately 3:45pm on August 12. Twelve fire engines, two water tankers and an elevated rescue platform were dispatched to tackle the blaze at the residential location.
The fire completely destroyed five single-storey dwellings, forcing inhabitants to flee to Newbridge Leisure Centre for safety. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Those displaced by the inferno were met by police officers providing assistance at the leisure facility. Transport arrangements were also made available for anyone requiring conveyance to the evacuation point, according to information posted by neighbourhood groups.
Residents were urged to keep windows and doors sealed due to lingering smoke fumes, while members of the public were instructed to avoid the vicinity and refrain from operating drones overhead.
Local businessman Gavin Rees has made facilities at the Pantside boxing gym available for storing relief supplies for those impacted by the blaze. The venue’s changing rooms and showers may also be utilised by evacuees.
According to Caerphilly Councillor Jamie Pritchard, six residences sustained severe damage with several reduced to rubble. Twelve appliances tackled the conflagration throughout the afternoon and evening.
Approximately 20 individuals received assistance at temporary shelter or the leisure centre overnight. By the early hours of Wednesday morning, everyone displaced had been accommodated at a Premier Inn establishment.
The local authority intends to collaborate with affected households on extended temporary housing solutions while structural specialists evaluate the extent of damage to the buildings. Additional support requirements from council services will also be assessed. Officials confirmed all damaged properties were privately owned.
Those coordinating donation efforts or offering verified assistance can contact newsdesk@southwalesargus.co.uk with particulars.
Caerphilly Council continues to provide aid to those displaced following the fire. The authority confirmed it is maintaining support for residents affected by the previous day’s catastrophic blaze at Pantside in Newbridge.
Newbridge RFC has opened its clubhouse to assist those impacted by the destructive fire. The venue will supply hot and cold beverages alongside washing and shower amenities from 8am. In a statement, the club indicated no advance contact or reservation was necessary, with anyone welcome to simply attend.
A crowdfunding campaign established by Demi Stredwick to aid families who have lost all possessions in the fire has collected over £600 from 34 contributors, working towards a £1,600 goal.
Firefighting operations have now been considerably reduced with crews having largely completed their work. Personnel have moved into the recovery stage and are preparing to transfer oversight to the local council and associated bodies. Specialist fire investigation officers are carrying out inquiries jointly with Gwent Police to establish the origin of the blaze.
Utility companies remain present to restore electricity supplies to impacted areas safely. The local authority continues offering residents information, guidance and practical help throughout the recovery.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service expressed gratitude to local communities, partner organisations and all those involved in the response for their continued cooperation during this difficult period.
Inhabitants informed our correspondent at the scene that the strong odour of smoke lingered over the area as morning arrived.
Paul Rogers, secretary of Newbridge RFC, stated that residents were uniting to provide mutual aid. He noted that the club existed to serve the community, particularly during such challenging circumstances.
Gwent Police have taken into custody a 29-year-old woman from Newbridge regarding the fire which occurred on Thursday. Chief Superintendent John Davies indicated that although numerous wildfires continue burning across the nation, investigators do not believe this particular blaze shares any connection with other such incidents. He acknowledged the fire had inflicted substantial destruction on numerous residential buildings, profoundly affecting local residents.
New footage has emerged showing the full extent of the devastation wrought by the fire which ripped through properties on Wednesday. Reports suggest five residences were demolished with numerous other occupants also compelled to flee their homes.