Former Bradford youth centre is hit by another blaze

Firefighters attended a blaze at the derelict Greenwood centre on Wood Lane, Swain House, yesterday afternoon.

The building has been hit repeatedly by suspected arsonists - last week, the Telegraph & Argus reported how crews had been called to three fires at the site in the space of seven days.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) previously said police had been informed and an arson investigation was underway.

The latest blaze happened just hours after ward Councillor Si Cunningham visited the site to meet with concerned residents.

The building before the latest fire (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

Cllr Cunningham, who represents Bolton and Undercliffe for Labour on Bradford Council, said: "I'm furious that some very selfish individuals are choosing to put local people and emergency services at risk of significant harm.

"This has now moved into very serious territory beyond a few isolated incidents, and we are supporting West Yorkshire Police with its investigations, which are very much live.

"We are pushing for those responsible to be met with the full force of the law.

"Once again I am sorry that local residents are having their lives disrupted.

"Getting this sorted is now our top priority for the ward."

He said "it's looking, realistically, that this (the building) will require a swift demolition".

A spokesperson for WYFRS said: "We were called at 3.54pm yesterday to reports of a derelict building fire on Wood Lane.

"One crew from Shipley and one crew from Bradford attended and extinguished the blaze."

Inspector Paul Riley, of Bradford East police, said: "We are aware of a number of anti-social behaviour related issues in the area and there are investigations ongoing. 

"We continue to work closely with partners to tackle these issues and fully support the councillor in securing the building and making it safe. 

"I would urge anyone with any information about any incidents in the local area to come forward to assist with our investigation.

"Contact the police via 101, quoting crime reference 13240107835, or via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat."

As reported last week, Inspired Neighbourhoods said it had plans to refurbish the old youth and community centre into a community hub offering vital services such as mental health support.

The Telegraph & Argus has not yet received a comment from Inspired Neighbourhoods about the latest fire.

But last week, John Steele, chair of Inspired Neighbourhoods' board of trustees, said: "The recent setback due to the fire is indeed disheartening."