A fire has erupted in Reading town centre, with smoke and flames visible across the area. While the cause of the blaze has not been confirmed, initial reports suggest it is located on top of a building under construction near the station.

The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to avoid the area, allowing emergency services clear access to the scene. In a social media update, they stated, “We are currently attending an incident on Garrard Street, Reading. Please avoid the area if possible to allow emergency services clear access to the scene. If you use public transport in the area, please find an alternative route. Further updates will be provided shortly.”

Multiple fire crews have been dispatched to the scene. Firefighters from Caversham Road, Wokingham Road, Wokingham, and Whitley Wood are currently on-site, battling the blaze at the high-rise construction site.

At just after 5pm on Friday, a major incident was declared in the Reading town centre due to the large fire on Friar Street. Thames Valley Police confirmed that evacuations were underway as a precautionary measure, although there were no reported casualties at the time. They advised residents in the vicinity to keep their doors and windows closed.

As of the latest update from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service at all individuals present at the construction site have been accounted for. Firefighters continue their efforts to extinguish the fire, and the public is urged to avoid the area, if possible.

The incident on Garrard Street has caused significant disruption in the town centre. Local authorities are working to ensure the safety of residents and the public. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.