Over 50 firefighters tackle fire on Stratford Road, Sparkhill

West Midlands Fire Service said they were called to Stratford Road, Sparkhill shortly before 4.55am this morning, December 23.

The fire service said 10 fire engines, two 4x4 brigade response vehicles and a hydraulic aerial platform responded, crewed by around 55 firefighters, tackled the blaze.

There have been no reported injuries as a result of the incident. 

In a statement, they said: “This was a fire at the front of a retail shop, which spread to shop signage and the bay windows of flats above the shop.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the shop and flats to search for casualties.

This was the scene this morning (Image: Jacob King) “Five people from the flats had left their properties and received checks from attending paramedics. There were no casualties or injuries and everyone has been accounted for.

“Firefighters have made good progress at the scene and the fire is under control.

“The hydraulic aerial platform remains in use as crews work to prevent fire spread.

“Two fire engines remain at the scene.”

Now the fire is under control, fire investigators are at the scene with police.

Images from the scene show what remains of a car in front of the building that had been affected by the fire.

Stratford Road is closed in both directions from Formans Road to Nansen Road.

No one is thought to have been injured (Image: Isaac Zintaan/PA Wire) Taking to social media earlier this morning, the fire service asked people to “please avoid the area, where possible”.

Buses in the area are now operating on a diverted route, with the National Express number 6 and Stagecoach number 41 now travelling via Showell Green Lane, Yardley Wood Road, Wake Green Road and College Road.

People have been told to allow extra time for their journeys and to consider alternative routes.