UPDATE: Five teens arrested after large fire at derelict Mansfield building

The former Bombardier building in Victoria Street was severely damaged and around 12 homes had to be evacuated because of the blaze, at around 7.30pm on Tuesday, July 31.

The boys, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, are currently being questioned in connection with the incident.

The building was handed back to the private owner last night (Thursday, August 2).

The owner has arranged for demolition contractors to arrive on site and work is expected to start over the weekend.

Mansfield District Council’s Building Control team is working with the demolition company to make the building safe.

The council’s Housing Needs team is continuing to support the residents of four properties and the priority is to make sure they can return home as soon as possible.

Victoria Street remains closed between Rooth Street and Portland Place and security guards are in place 24 hours a day to prevent access and ensure public safety.

Businesses that can be accessed from Rooth Street are still able to open to the public. The council has covered the payment machine in Garden Road car park to support affected businesses and their customers with free parking during this time.

Mike Robinson, director of economic growth at Mansfield District Council, said: “The safety of the public and their property is our main priority and we’d like to thank the residents and businesses in the area for their patience.

“We will remain in direct contact with those affected and provide updates when possible.”