‘Flying Flaming Objects’ Spread Blaze at Dagenham Block, Says Fire Brigade

The incident prompted a huge emergency response, with over 225 firefighters attending the scene. More than 80 residents were made homeless, and by December the building had been deemed structurally unsafe and was demolished.

Resident Calls for Focus on Building Safety

Former resident Sarah Williams, who lived in the block, said questions around the fire's origin had become a distraction from the more pressing issue of how the fire was able to spread so quickly.

“Fires start in blocks of flats all the time,” she said. “But if blocks are built and managed properly, you don’t have 80 people running for their lives in the middle of the night, followed by a total demolition and silence from those responsible.”

Ms Williams criticised the response from the building’s freeholder, Arinium Limited, and managing agents Block Management UK Ltd, who have not publicly commented since the report’s release. Block Management UK Ltd previously stated their role was limited to the maintenance of common areas only.

Ongoing Investigation into Fire Safety Breaches

The LFB confirmed that a separate investigation into possible fire safety breaches at Spectrum House is ongoing and remains a priority. While the fire brigade has not commented in detail on the report’s findings, it will meet with former residents and stakeholders to discuss the full report in more detail.

Ms Williams acknowledged that the fire safety investigation would take time, adding: “People have learned from Grenfell – justice must be thorough to ensure it stands up in court. I’d rather wait and get a successful criminal conviction than a rushed, unsuccessful one.”

The LFB has said it will provide further comment following the residents' meeting.