A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a major fire destroyed the historic Big Mill in Leek Staffordshire. Police confirmed that an 18-year-old man from the area is in custody on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.
The blaze broke out at around 9:22pm at the six-storey Grade II-listed building on Mill Street, prompting emergency evacuations as flames spread rapidly through the structure. According to Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, crews remained at the scene into Saturday as they worked to bring the fire under control.
Station Manager Jonathan Ashby said: “The fire is under control but has yet to be extinguished as crews are unable to enter the building at this time. The large cordon is still in place and we’re expected to be in the area for some time whilst we work to bring the incident to a safe and swift conclusion.”
Drone footage showed flames engulfing the building, with parts of the structure collapsing as firefighters battled the inferno. Multiple emergency crews and an aerial ladder platform were deployed. Roads around the area, including the A523 Mill Street, were closed as authorities urged the public to avoid the scene.
The Big Mill, built in 1857, was a historic landmark and once housed a major silk manufacturing firm employing thousands of workers. The building had been unoccupied but had planning permission for redevelopment into residential flats.
Residents described the incident as frightening. “Can’t believe we came across it as one of the first, shaking like a leaf, horrific!!! The noise was awful!” one witness said.
Authorities have appealed for anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to assist with the investigation.