Major Blaze at Former Clarence High School in Formby

Emergency services are currently dealing with a serious ongoing fire at the former Clarence High School site on West Lane and St. Anne’s Road in #Formby this evening (Thursday 11 September).

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) were called to the scene at 7.47pm following reports of a building fire. Fire crews arrived within three minutes and discovered the theatre building of the former school well alight, with flames spreading across an area measuring approximately 50 x 20 metres. Four fire engines remain in attendance.

Formby Bubble footage of the fire

By 9.00pm, the situation had escalated further, with huge flames still tearing through the building and the fire described as unstable. Debris has been falling from the structure, creating significant safety risks.

Merseyside Police have now blocked off all surrounding roads to protect the public, while firefighters continue their efforts to bring the blaze under control. The incident has been divided into operational sectors, and crews have established water supplies to tackle the fire from multiple points.

Residents living nearby have reported thick, heavy smoke and a strong smell across the area, with falling debris visible around the site. Locals are being urged to keep all windows and doors closed to reduce the impact of smoke inhalation.

⚠️ Public Safety Guidance from MFRS

• Keep windows and doors closed if you live nearby.

• If you have an existing medical condition, ensure you have medication close to hand.

• If you experience any ill effects, call NHS 111 for advice.

• Avoid the area entirely, as emergency services are on scene and debris continues to fall.

The blaze has caused shock and concern in the community, with many residents gathering nearby to witness the scene but being urged by police to move away for their own safety.

MFRS crews are expected to remain at the site for several hours while they work to fully extinguish the fire and make the area safe.