Fire destroys Hackney Road rooftop terrace, cause still unclear

A rooftop terrace and half the roof of a building on Hackney Road were destroyed in a fire on the morning of 3 August 2026. London Fire Brigade received the call at 7:53am and arrived to find flames affecting the structure between Shoreditch High Street and Cremer Street.

Around 40 firefighters and six fire engines were deployed to the scene. Crews used a 32-metre turntable ladder as a water tower to tackle the blaze from above. The fire was brought under control by 8:47am, according to the London Fire Brigade.

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No injuries reported, but cause remains undetermined

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson confirmed there were no reports of injuries. The building involved is described as a shop with flats above. While the fire is believed to have started accidentally, the exact cause has not been established.

The unstable roof structure has prevented investigators from determining the precise origin of the fire. The London Fire Brigade has not released further details on potential next steps for the investigation or the building’s safety.

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Impact on residents and businesses

The fire affected a mixed-use building on Hackney Road, though it is unclear how many residents or businesses were displaced. The London Fire Brigade did not provide details on whether occupants were evacuated or if the building remains habitable.

Local residents and business owners may face disruptions while the structure is assessed for safety. Hackney Council has not yet commented on whether temporary accommodation or support will be offered to those affected.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled a fire at a shop with flats above on Hackney Road in Hackney. A rooftop terrace was destroyed by fire, as well as half of the roof of the building. There were no reports of any injuries.

London Fire Brigade spokesperson

What happens next

The London Fire Brigade will continue to investigate the cause of the fire once the roof structure is deemed safe. Hackney Council may conduct its own assessment to determine whether the building requires repairs or demolition.

Residents and business owners in the affected building should expect further updates from the council or the London Fire Brigade. It is unclear when the structure will be stabilised or when occupants may return.