The week for those at Medina Village in Cowes started with the shock and distress of the devastating fire that ripped through several industrials units, leaving many gutted and destroyed.
Investigations by fire and police officers yesterday concluded the fire was started by an ‘accidental cause’.
Rumours had been circulating on social media that tenants of the site were given notice to leave just last week.
A spokesperson for the owners confirmed to OnTheWight that “no tenants have been given notice to leave Medina Village”.
Working closely with council
A spokesperson for the owners of Medina Yard, the Harrison Trust,
“We have been liaising with businesses and the Isle of Wight Council, following the fire that swept through a series of old industrial and storage units on the site on Monday.
“Thankfully there were no injuries and the owners have been working with Isle of Wight Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox to minimise disruption to the tenants affected.”
Substantial clean up operation
They go on to add,
“The fire, which started in a car repair workshop was brought under control by the exemplary efforts of the emergency services.
“Whilst there has been a lot of valuable property lost, the Trust hopes to see businesses back on site as early as next week but, they have a substantial clean up operation on their hands.
“Meetings with Building Control and Fire Safety officers have taken place and local firms have already been employed to carry out H&S assessments and to investigate the structural integrity of remaining buildings.
“There are serious concerns over loose panelling and damaged structures, which have necessitated the temporary closure of Medina Village.
“Electrical and gas engineers have also been on site to get supplies back on for those tenants that have been able to remain on site. It is hoped that the Medina Village will reopen on Monday next week.”
Gully Howard Technical, the owners’ managing agents, will keep businesses informed of the clean up operation and where necessary, provide accompanied access.
Town meeting
A Town Meeting for all of those affected will held at the Cowes Combined Services Club on Monday 1st February at 7pm.
Article edits
Meeting time changed from 1pm to 7pm.
Image: © With kind permission of Allan Marsh
