Watch footage show the extent of the damage to Smethwick’s former cinema following a huge fire

More than 50 firefighters were called to Windmill Lane, Smethwick, at 1.34pm on Sunday after witnesses reported smoke coming from the four-storey Art Deco building.

Dramatic footage taken at the time showed thick plumes of smoke billowing from the burning building as firefighters battled the raging blaze.

It led to a number of road and shop closures as 12 crews worked through the night trying to put out the blaze at the disused cinema and bingo hall.

The fire service later confirmed the flames had broken through the roof of the building, with firefighters taking on water from the Cape Arm of the Birmingham Canal.

West Midlands Police closed several roads to traffic, including Windmill Lane, Cranford Street, London Street and Grove Lane, while the adjacent Windmill Shopping Park/Centre was closed early on Sunday due to smoke in the area.

By 7:30 this morning, the fire service had reduced its presence to just two crews as they extinguished hot spots, a challenge made more difficult by the roof collapse.

A fire service update shortly after 10am said: “Our crews will remain at the scene throughout the day. The reopening of shops and roads has begun, however intermittent temporary closures may be necessary for safety reasons. Please obey any signage or directions. provided by those working on site to help keep everyone safe.”

A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Windmill Lane will remain closed for the rest of the day, although the commercial premises are now accessible. The cause of the fire is being investigated by West Midlands Fire Service.”