Pedestrians put themselves at risk under dangerous window in disused Ilkeston shop front

The broken and overhanging window at the former Argos building in Bath Street, Ilkeston. (Credit: Cllr Kate Fennelly)

A combined operation between the Fire and Police services was triggered on Thursday 30th July after issues were identified with a disused building in Ilkeston.

The incident began when Cllr Kate Fennelly was contacted by a resident about an unsafe window on the old Argos building on Bath Street. A large section of glass was hanging loose following a period of strong winds, posing a danger to those passing by on the pedestrianised route.

Despite a cordon being put into place with tape, some people continued to try and walk under the hanging glass which Councillor Fennelly described on social media as “shocking”.

A 999 call was made, and Cllr Fennelly headed straight to the scene with a local fire inspector to assess the situation.

Crews from Derby Ascot Drive Fire Station were dispatched as those from Ilkeston have been deployed to the moors to deal with an incident there as well as other calls.

On arrival, work was immediately carried out to make tbe front of the building safe for pedestrians.

Along with a local PCSO Taylor, Cllr Fennelly also inspected the rear of the property which has remained out of use but the subject of discussion over redevelopment, for some time.

Although it had been secured, there was evidence of a break in, during which time, it is thought that a front window ended up being smashed.

Cllr Fennelly said that the Building Control Team from Erewash Borough Council had attended the scene and had “… arranged contractors to secure the building and block off access points.

“The owners have been informed and will be billed for the emergency works. We will also be chasing them for an update on what is happening with the building and when redevelopment is due to start, to prevent another incident like this.”

Thanks were offered to officials from all services involved for ensuring a quick response to keep pedestrians safe.