Roads still closed after Sidwell Street fire

Road closures remained in place today folllowing a serious fire in Exeter city centre.

Police say traffic disruption could last up to another 24 hours.

Fifteen appliances from across Devon, including one from Somerset, were called to the Richer Sounds in Sidwell Street at around 1.45pm yesterday, after smoke was reported to be billowing from the store.

The building was extensively damaged and needs to be made safe.

Western Way and most approaches to St Anne's roundabout remain closed.

Old Tiverton Road and Blackboy Road junctions have reopened.

At noon Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service reported two fire appliances are in attendance, one from Danes Castle and one from Middlemoor and also an officer.

Earlier this morning an aerial platform was in use at the rear of the building to tackle hot spots.

A structural engineer was also in attendance to assess the building and liaise with Police.

Exeter City’s friendly against Cardiff City, at 7.30 this evening, will be unaffected by the fire at St Sidwell Street, Exeter.

In a statement, Exeter City FC said: “We are keeping up to date with police regarding road closures and traffic information and should have more information for supporters early this afternoon.

“However, there are plenty of alternative routes to St James Park should the roundabout off of St Sidwell Street still be closed this evening.

“We would urge fans travelling to the game to keep up to date with the traffic information given out by police and the club and give themselves extra time to get to the ground if necessary.”