'Major fire' at Imperial China Watford ruled accidental

Herts Fire and Rescue Service will not be investigating further after smoke poured onto the A41/Elton Way, from Imperial China Watford's roof on Saturday, February 4.

Eight crews and a ladder unit tackled the blaze at around 4.30pm.

Emergency services warned people to avoid the area due to “lots of smoke”, which was causing issues for drivers and congestion on the road.

Fire engines at the scene. (Image: Val Diamond)

Hertfordshire County Council, on behalf of Herts Fire and Rescue, confirmed today (February 8) that officers on the scene determined the fire was accidental.

The fire protection team will be carrying out a follow-up visit to check that the necessary fire protection measures are in place.

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The blaze was extinguished by around 6pm but a fire service presence remained at the scene to monitor the building until much later.

Fire engines at the scene (Image: Val Diamond)No injuries were reported but the building was severely damaged.

The Imperial China said it hopes to see customers back at the restaurant "soon" on its social media.

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