Lewisham Nursery Fire, February 1: A21 Shut, Buses Diverted, Major Disruption
The Lewisham fire at Rushey Green Nursery in Catford on 1 February brought eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters to the scene, damaging the roof and forcing A21 closures with several bus diversions. The London Fire Brigade set a cordon while the cause remains unknown and no injuries are reported so far. We explain the travel impact, safety updates, and what residents and local businesses should do today as disruption affects southeast London’s routine and trade.
Transport impact and commuter guidance
The A21 is shut near Catford after the Lewisham fire, causing heavy congestion on local streets as traffic diverts around the cordon. Multiple bus routes are on diversion, with longer journey times across southeast London. We advise avoiding the A21 zone, planning extra time, and using alternative routes where possible until authorities confirm a safe partial reopening.
Check live updates from Transport for London before you set out, and consider flexible hours if your employer allows it. For the Lewisham fire area, allow wide detours to reduce gridlock near Catford and the South Circular corridors. Walking or cycling short local trips can save time. If smoke persists along your route, choose another option and monitor official advice.
What emergency services have confirmed
About 60 firefighters with eight fire engines tackled the London nursery fire and contained it after roof damage at the site. Crews set a safety perimeter and advised residents to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke, according to Express coverage. The Lewisham fire area remains under control measures while damping down and checks continue.
The London Fire Brigade says the cause of the Lewisham fire is not yet known, and investigators will assess the structure once it is safe. No injuries are reported so far. A21 cordons stay in place to protect the public and crews, with updates expected as conditions improve, per the GB News report.
Local economy, insurance, and policy angles
Shops, cafés, and services near Catford can see weaker footfall and delivery delays while the A21 remains closed. The Lewisham fire also disrupts staff travel, which can reduce trading hours. We expect some recovery once traffic normalises, but today’s takings may be hit. Local councils and TfL will likely coordinate signal changes and signage to ease flows as diversions persist.
Property insurance may cover fire damage and business interruption at the affected site, subject to policy terms and timely notification. The Lewisham fire underscores the need for current fire risk assessments, alarms, and clear evacuation plans. Building Control and the London Fire Brigade will check structural safety before any re-entry. Document damage, secure the perimeter, and keep communications with insurers and staff clear.
What residents and businesses should do now
If you live nearby, keep windows closed while smoke lingers and avoid the cordon. The Lewisham fire response may change through the day as crews damp down. Follow the London Fire Brigade and TfL alerts, note any health symptoms from smoke, and seek medical advice if needed. Share verified updates with neighbours to reduce unnecessary trips into the area.
Owners should log times of closures and diversions, notify couriers of new drop-off points, and update customers on delays. After the Lewisham fire, review business continuity plans, check insurance notification deadlines, and keep cash flow forecasts tight. Consider click-and-collect or delivery windows outside peak congestion to stabilise sales while the A21 restrictions remain in place.
Final Thoughts
The Lewisham fire at Rushey Green Nursery has closed part of the A21, diverted buses, and slowed local trade, though no injuries are reported and the cause is still unknown. For residents and commuters, the priority is safety and reliable information. Check TfL before travelling, allow extra time, and avoid the cordon. For nearby traders, record disruption, speak to insurers promptly, and adapt delivery windows to keep orders moving. We expect phased relief as the London Fire Brigade reduces on-site activity, but traffic patterns may lag. Stay alert to official updates, keep staff informed, and review your fire safety and continuity plans to cut risk in the days ahead.
FAQs
What happened in the Lewisham fire?
A fire broke out at Rushey Green Nursery in Catford on 1 February. Eight fire engines and about 60 firefighters attended. The roof was damaged, a safety cordon was set, and the A21 was closed nearby. The London Fire Brigade reports no injuries so far, and an investigation will follow.
Is the A21 open and are buses running?
The A21 is closed near Catford while crews complete checks. Multiple bus routes are diverted, causing longer journey times in southeast London. Allow extra time, follow Transport for London updates, and consider alternative routes or modes until authorities confirm safe reopening and normal service.
Do we know the cause of the Lewisham fire?
The cause has not been confirmed. Investigators will assess once the structure is safe to enter. The London Fire Brigade has focused on containment and safety cordons. No injuries are reported so far. Updates will follow from official channels as evidence is gathered and reviewed.
How could this affect local businesses and insurance?
Nearby shops and services may see lower footfall, staff delays, and delivery issues during the A21 closure. Affected property owners should notify insurers quickly, document damage, and review business interruption cover. Update fire risk assessments and continuity plans to support recovery and reduce future exposure.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
