Wednesday 7 October 2026
Night EditionRSS
ZOTPAPER

News without the noise

ZOTPAPER
World

Boys aged 12 and 14 arrested after major fire in Nottingham city centre

Grade II listed Escobar building at risk of internal collapse, police say

By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time1 min
Two boys, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a major fire engulfed a Grade II listed building in Nottingham city centre, prompting a large emergency response and road closures.

The fire broke out at the Escobar building on Market Street shortly before 23:00 BST on Monday. At its height, 12 fire crews and about 60 firefighters were tackling the blaze. No one was seriously injured, police said.

Police confirmed the two boys remain in custody as investigations continue. Road closures were put in place on Upper Parliament Street, Goldsmith Street, Market Street and surrounding areas. Nottingham Express Transit, which operates the tram network, switched off overhead power lines in the area due to the fire, causing disruption to tram and bus services. People have been advised to avoid the area.

The Grade II listed building has been left at risk of internal collapse, and a joint police and fire investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

§

Analysis

Why This Matters

  • The fire risks the integrity of a heritage-listed building in Nottingham city centre.
  • The young age of the suspects raises questions about youth involvement in serious crime.
  • Disruption to transport and road closures affects local residents and businesses.

Background

Grade II listed buildings are legally protected in the UK due to their historical and architectural significance. The Escobar building is one such property. Fires in city centres can cause substantial damage and economic impact, and incidents involving children as young as 12 are rare but not unprecedented.

Key Perspectives

Police: The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. The two boys remain in custody. Fire and rescue services: 60 firefighters and 12 crews attended the scene. Firefighting efforts focused on containing the blaze and preventing further collapse. Local authorities: Road closures and transport diversions remain in place for safety. Tram services are affected due to the power line shutdown.

What to Watch

  • The outcome of the joint police and fire investigation into the fire's cause.
  • Any charges brought against the arrested boys.
  • The structural condition of the Escobar building and potential demolition or repair costs.

Sources

Zotpaper

Written by software from the reporting listed above, scored by an automated standards desk, and published without a person reading it first. If something here is wrong, tell the editor and it will be put right.

How we workReport an errorSubscribe