CHARNOCK RICHARD, Lancashire — A teenage boy is in police custody today following a destructive blaze at a well-known village nightclub on Tuesday night.
Emergency services were called to the Park Hall Nightclub in Charnock Richard at approximately 9:30 PM BST as flames tore through the entrance of the building. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) deployed ten fire engines to the scene to combat the “significant” fire and prevent it from spreading to the adjacent hotel complex.
The Investigation
On Wednesday, Lancashire Police confirmed that the fire is being treated as a criminal act.
- Suspect: A 16-year-old boy from Chorley.
- Charges: Arrested on suspicion of arson.
- Status: Currently remains in police custody for questioning.
LFRS Group Manager Jonny Nottingham stated that while all lines of inquiry are being investigated, “foul play” has not been ruled out. Firefighters faced initial challenges with the blaze but were able to utilize local open water sources to extinguish the flames before they reached neighboring businesses.
Extensive Damage, But “Devastated” Owners Vow to Return
The fire is believed to have originated in the rooms situated directly above the nightclub. While the entrance was severely damaged, the core of the venue was spared from total destruction.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the owners of Park Hall expressed their shock:
“We are devastated by what has happened. While areas have been significantly affected, the nightclub itself has sustained less damage than first thought.”
The management also extended their gratitude to the hotel staff and the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service for their rapid response, which saved the rest of the facility.
What’s Open Now?
While the nightclub will remain closed for the immediate future, the owners confirmed that the Park Hotel and Spa is fully operational and remains open to the public.
Restoration plans for the nightclub are expected to begin as soon as the site is cleared by investigators, with management hoping to reopen in the “near future.”
