Emergency notice!!! Official statement Issues concerning mill Hill ongoing T… 

1. INCIDENT OVERVIEW
The community of Mill Hill, Barnet, has recently faced a series of serious safety concerns including significant fires and reports of public disturbances. These events pose elevated risks to residents and require immediate attention.

FIRE AT COMMERCIAL UNITS (Watford Way)
At 00:46 on 3 March 2025, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) mobilised ten fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters to tackle a blaze impacting commercial premises with residential units above on Watford Way, Mill Hill. The deployment included a 32 m ladder appliance; the fire threatened the A1’s dual carriageway which was closed in both directions. Within 2.5 hours, control was regained, but investigations into the cause are ongoing .

MASS RESIDENTIAL FIRE (Northway Crescent)
On 5 June 2025, around 17:00, LFB responded to a major fire on Northway Crescent. Reports included 50 emergency calls citing visible plumes of smoke, and over 25 local residents were evacuated from adjacent homes. The blaze affected multiple garden sheds and vehicle garages. The response involved ten fire engines and 70 firefighters from Mill Hill, Hendon, Stanmore, and Hertfordshire stations. The fire was contained after nearly four hours; crews also encountered and cooled gas cylinders. The exact cause remains under investigation.

2. COMMUNITY THREATS & POLICE RESPONSE
Local policing teams have identified rising concerns around public safety:

• Violence against women and girls within Mill Hill parks has prompted dedicated patrols initiated 6 July 2025. These measures include coordinated efforts with Barnet Council and participation in community walks with MP presence.

• A spate of burglaries in hotspot areas has triggered high-visibility patrols and mobile-police outreach, aiming to deter offenders and reassure residents.

• Reports of cannabis use in car parks—notably at Mill Hill Park, Wise Lane, Daws Lane, Sanders Lane, Green Avenue—have led to targeted stop-and-search operations by local Safer Neighbourhoods Teams.

3. INFRASTRUCTURE & RESPONSE CAPACITY RISKS

• The London Fire Authority has floated budget-cutting proposals that include potential closure of Mill Hill Fire Station. This proposal is part of plans to meet £25 million–£50 million annual savings. Public safety advocates, including local MPs, warn that such closures may dangerously hamper emergency response times—especially against the backdrop of ongoing developments (e.g., nearby Colindale regeneration) .

4. CURRENT COMMUNITY ALERTS
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and:

• Report any signs of uncoordinated gatherings, fire hazards, or suspicious behavior (especially around parks, car parks, and unlit areas).

• Adhere to fire safety guidance—especially regarding outdoor flames, propane cylinders, and garden shed use.

• Support police and fire services by maintaining clear and safe access to properties and roadways.

• Subscribe to MetEngage for real-time local safety updates .

5. OFFICIAL ADVISORIES

• Fire Safety Protocol: In the event of smoke, fire, or gas cylinder issues, evacuate immediately and call 999. Householders should install and test alarms, maintain clear escape routes, and avoid unsafe electrical setups.

• Crime Prevention Tips: Adequately light gardens and park vehicles in secure, visible areas. Report vandalism, drug-related activity, or suspicious individuals to the local Safer Neighbourhood team.

• Transport Disruptions: Avoid affected roads during emergencies. Support emergency access by observing no‑parking zones and complying with any ad-hoc traffic controls.

6. CALL TO ACTION
Local authorities—including Barnet Council, Metropolitan Police, and London Fire Brigade—commit to enhancing patrols, emergency readiness, and public engagement. Residents are encouraged to attend upcoming community meetings hosted by local policing teams to discuss risks, planning, and preventive strategies.

7. NEXT STEPS

• Investigation conclusions on March and June fires will be published as soon as available.

• Public consultation on fire station viability will proceed in line with the London Safety Plan.

• Regular updates via MetEngage, local websites, and notice boards to keep residents informed.

ISSUED BY:
Barnet Safer Neighbourhoods Team & London Fire Brigade – Mill Hill

CONTACT:
To report concerns or request assistance, contact the Mill Hill Safer Neighbourhoods Team via the MetEngage portal or call 999 in emergencies.