A damaging fire forced residents out of their homes at Edmund Park Estate on Marigold Road, Frome, on the evening of Wednesday, December 3. The blaze began around 7:50 pm in a second-floor flat, quickly spreading and causing extensive damage to multiple units.
Firefighters from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service responded swiftly to the scene. The entire building was evacuated to ensure residents’ safety. Selwood Housing, the building’s owner, confirmed that nine flats were impacted, and all affected residents have been relocated to temporary accommodation overnight.
In the wake of the fire, Selwood Housing has been actively supporting displaced residents, assisting them with immediate needs and coordinating longer-term housing solutions where necessary. The company expressed relief that all residents evacuated safely, while acknowledging the distress caused by the incident.
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The fire caused significant damage, including part of the roof collapsing, with severe fire, smoke, and water impact to the upper floors. Emergency services also attended to one resident suffering from smoke inhalation. The gas supply was promptly isolated by Wales & West Utilities to prevent further hazards.
Frome Town Council has extended support by offering to provide essential supplies to those affected. Residents in need can contact the council via phone at 01373 465757, email at [email protected], or visit the town hall on Christchurch Street West.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with fire crews and police set to return to the site to carry out further inquiries. Selwood Housing will assess structural damage and safety once access to the building is possible and will keep residents updated.
Selwood Housing thanked emergency services for their rapid and professional response and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting residents through this challenging period, encouraging affected individuals to reach out with any concerns.