By Three arrested following former Grimsby Art College fire
Last night the now abandoned Grimsby Art College on Eleanor Street was set ablaze under suspicious circumstances, prompting an emergency response.
Roughly 30 firefighters and officers from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service tackled the fire as Eleanor Street closed to traffic.
The fire service attended with five appliances and an hydraulic platform after the fire started shortly after 5pm yesterday.
The abandoned building is a hotspot for youths who are determined to explore despite the high risk of danger.
In March, officers were called to the college after two children had become trapped following a floor collapsing on top of them.
Many residents living near the building questioned whether it should be demolished to prevent further damage or injuries.
However, the council said the structure remains stable despite the inside collapsing and crumbling away.
The college was first opened in 1895 and at the time was called Grimsby Higher Grade School or Grimsby Municipal College.
The building was later renamed Wintringham Grammar School after local timber merchant and former Grimsby Mayor, John Wintringham.
In the 1970s it became Grimsby Art College but after the college moved it was believed the building would be turned into apartments.
In a recent update on the fire, Humberside Police confirmed three juveniles have been arrested after a foot chase.
A spokesperson said: “After reports of a fire at the old Art College on ELEANOR STREET enquiries were conducted at the scene. After a foot chase 3 juveniles have been arrested under suspicion of arson.”
