Huge fire breaks out at African Village restaurant in Perry Barr

A catastrophic fire has broken out at the African Village restaurant in Perry Barr tonight which has resulted in major damage to the premises.

The Birmingham venue, previously known as the Crown & Cushion pub, is currently ablaze and causing traffic chaos in the Perry Barr area this evening.

West Midlands Fire Service arrived at the scene at around 4pm and immediately began the task of bringing the fire under control.

West Midland Roads have tweeted: “Due to a building fire just off Birchfield Road at the junction of Wellington Road #PerryBarr, police and fire service have closed both roads. Please plan ahead as there is heavy congestion on Wellington Road.”

Perry Barr resident Selbin Kabote, who visits the venue for African meals and describes the establishment as “iconic”, saw the building on fire as he walked home from work this evening.

He said: “It’s indeed a pity to hear that the bar has been extensively damaged by fire. I frequent the bar and restaurant to sample the excellent African dishes that are prepared at the African Village.”

West Midlands Fire Service have sent out a public alert:

“Crews are likely to be at the scene of a severe fire in Perry Barr for several more hours. Please avoid the Birchfield Road area and find alternative routes if you’re driving.”

West Midlands Fire Service confirmed that 40 firefighters were at the scene of the fire and had rescued a man from the first floor of the building.

Fire crews also confirmed that about 80% of the building has been destroyed by the raging inferno.

West Midlands Police are also urging motorists to avoid the area until the location has been made safe.