Police investigation ongoing after huge fire destroys former college building in Coventry

A huge fire has destroyed significant portions of the Henley College building in Coventry, with police investigating suspected arson.  

Fire commander Ryan Donaldson estimated that a total of “70%” of the structure had been damaged in the blaze, as local residents were warned of the fire potentially spreading to neighbouring buildings.

The firefight required large efforts, as the flames reignited multiple times the following day. In total, it took six crews, 75 firefighters at their peak, to bring the crisis to a resolution. 

It is suspected that the fire began as a result of arson, and since then four teenagers have been arrested 

The Hazardous Area Response Team determined that no persons were in the derelict structure, and there were no injuries or deaths.  

It is suspected that the fire began as a result of arson, and since then four teenagers have been arrested.

The Henley College building had not been used by Coventry College since 2021 and instead became the occasional stage for TV productions and emergency service training. The college stated that the building was now up for sale. 

Henley College, whilst derelict, was a memory of past years, with former students sharing memories of the “beautiful fish pond right beside the students cafeteria, brilliant theatre for shows and a great library”. 

Mary Creagh, MP for Coventry East, stated: “I was heartbroken to see Henley College on fire on Tuesday evening […] I hope something positive can be salvaged from this devastating event”.  

Police remain on alert in the neighbourhood, stating: “We will also be stepping up patrols […] following recent reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.”

This incident comes as anti-social behaviour is increasingly in the government spotlight, following record-high levels post-pandemic. 

The Labour government promised to tackle these issues with the Crime and Policing Bill, which is currently in the committee stage. The legislation, if passed, would increase police powers, through “respect orders” which would have criminal consequences, and introduce new specific offences such as “retail assault” or “public nuisance”.