A MAJOR blaze has ripped through a popular furniture store and children’s play area – leaving it “completely destroyed”.
Fifteen fire crews were scrambled after the huge fire erupted in Blackpool, Lancashire, late last night.
The blaze is said to have broken out on Waterloo Road at around 11.30pm.
An orange hue could be seen from miles away as locals were warned to keep windows and doors shut.
Local businesses Smart Mart and Smart Play said the building had been “completely destroyed” by the fire.
Issuing an update on social media, it said: “We are absolutely devastated to share that there has been a fire at the play area.
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“At this time, the building and play area have been completely destroyed.
“We are still waiting for further information and working closely with the relevant services to understand what has happened.
This place was built with so much love, hard work, and dedication, and we are truly heartbroken.”
Smart Mart owner Steve also took to Facebook to update customers on the devastating fire.
He said: “It’s horrible. I’ve got the window open… I’ve just been watching it.
“A lot of work has gone into that. Everybody is safe and that’s all I’m concerned about as things stand.”
Locals shared shocking footage of smoke billowing from the building – with a huge emergency response in the street.
Police vans and fire engines could be seen lining the street – just metres from the town’s popular seafront.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue confirmed firefighters were still at the scene this morning.
The service said: “At 23:30 on Friday, fifteen fire engines attended a commercial building fire on Waterloo Road, Blackpool.
“Crews utilised six breathing apparatus and two ground monitors to extinguish the fire. Fire crews remain in attendance.”
Multiple roads have been closed in the area, Lancashire Police said.
The force said: “We are currently assisting Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service with an incident on Waterloo Road in Blackpool.
“This has resulted in multiple road closures at the location, please avoid the area and plan your routes accordingly.”
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