Browsing: London

Firefighters are battling a significant blaze at an industrial unit in Nine Ashes, Essex, with 12 crews deployed and facing limited water supplies. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to ongoing smoke and potential cylinder explosions, as the incident is expected to last several hours.

A section of the M23 near Gatwick Airport remains closed following a fatal collision early this morning, which resulted in the death of a 65-year-old highways worker. A 38-year-old driver has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous and drink driving, as investigations continue. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes amid severe traffic delays.

Southwark Council has issued a planning enforcement notice demanding Steven Thorpe remove a 3.6-metre section of the Berlin Wall he installed in his Herne Hill garden. Neighbours complained about its height and impact on visibility, prompting council action that could result in a fine of up to £20,000 for non-compliance.

A new heatwave is forecast to affect parts of the UK this week, with temperatures potentially reaching 34C. The UK Health Security Agency has issued yellow heat health alerts across multiple regions. National Rail anticipates travel disruptions, cautioning that heat may affect overhead lines and train integrity.

Meghan Markle, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet will not accompany Prince Harry on his upcoming visit to London. Despite previous intentions to travel for the Invictus Games countdown, Harry’s request for taxpayer-funded police protection was denied, preventing their attendance.

Southern Water has implemented a hosepipe ban for one million residents across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight due to critically low water levels from prolonged dry conditions. The ban, effective from July 10, aims to alleviate pressure on water supplies, particularly from the River Test.

A man has been charged with murder following the death of Isaac Clare-Watts at the Nine Ladies Stone Circle during a summer solstice rave. The 26-year-old was found dead last Monday, and Szymon Babynko, 23, has also been charged with attempted murder in a separate incident.

The BT Tower in London is set for a significant transformation into a hotel, following MCR’s acquisition for £275 million. The redevelopment, which aims to restore public access after decades of closure, includes an observation deck and retail space. Construction is expected to begin in 2029, concluding in 2033.

Severe thunderstorms have disrupted operations at Heathrow and Gatwick airports, leading to delays for nearly 800 flights. Passengers are facing waits of up to 11 hours, with further delays expected as storms continue to affect air traffic across southern England, according to Eurocontrol.

Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier emphasised that the UK must decide its relationship with the bloc, outlining clear conditions for rejoining. He expressed that while Brexit is settled, the door remains open, contingent on the UK respecting fundamental EU freedoms if it seeks closer ties.