A massive fire engulfed an iconic building last night, creating a spectacle of towering flames illuminating the sky. The blaze erupted at Venue 73, formerly known as The Ritz, in Brighouse, Yorkshire. Emergency services swiftly responded to the incident at the corner of Bradford Road and Bonegate Road.
West Yorkshire Police issued a statement alerting the public about the substantial fire at the Bradford Road and Bonegate Road intersection in Brighouse. Road closures were implemented in both directions, urging residents to steer clear of the area and to keep doors and windows shut due to the smoke.
Numerous locals expressed their sorrow on social media platforms regarding the fire. Eileen Wood lamented on Facebook, “Oh no, that beautiful art deco building. Shame it was left abandoned for so long. Many people in Brighouse and beyond cherish numerous happy memories associated with it.”
Similarly, Steve Aykroyd remarked, “What a tragic loss. The Ritz brought joy to so many people. Rest in peace.”
The Black Bull, Brighouse, expressed sadness over the destruction of the Ritz ballroom, emphasizing its historical significance and the memories it held for the community. The building, vacant since 2020, was intended for redevelopment into a drive-thru by Starbucks earlier this year.
Eyewitnesses reported the arrival of three to four ambulances at the scene, while police closed surrounding roads as firefighters battled the blaze. Although unconfirmed, some residents claimed there were three significant explosions before the fire erupted, causing a section of the building to collapse.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities continue to investigate the incident. Residents have taken to social media to share their fond memories of The Ritz, reflecting on its impact on the community and lamenting its loss. The fiery scene has left many locals in shock and sadness, with concerns raised about the preservation of such iconic architectural landmarks.