Arson attack on historic building
A HISTORIC Victorian building has been damaged by a fire which is thought to have been started intentionally.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of smoke issuing from Fleet House, near Lee Circle car park, Leicester, at 7.13pm on Monday.
A fire service spokeswoman said: “The fire was located on the first floor of the threestorey building, with basement. Part of Lee Circle was closed during the operation.”
The blaze, which “burnt through” a 4 sq m area of the first floor, was quickly brought under control and fire crews came away from the scene at about 8pm.
The spokeswoman said: “The cause is believed to be deliberate and police have been informed.”
No-one was injured.
The building dates from about 1900 and, for well over a century, was the head office of British Steam Specialities.
The company’s sign is still over the doorway.
Plans have been proposed to turn the building into a block of flats.