Breaking News: Fire Incident at Television Centre

A major incident has unfolded at the historic Television Centre in White City, London, with fifteen fire engines and approximately 100 firefighters responding to a fire at the mixed-use building. The London Fire Brigade has urged people to avoid the area as the incident continues.

The Iconic Building’s Current Status

The complex, formerly known as BBC Television Centre, served as the headquarters of BBC Television from 1960 to 2013. Following a comprehensive refurbishment, it reopened in 2017 as a mixed-use development featuring residential apartments, retail spaces, office facilities, and three TV production studios operated by BBC Studioworks.

The fire reportedly broke out at a restaurant on the building’s top floors. Officials have confirmed that the blaze was contained to the restaurant area, and fortunately, no injuries or deaths have been reported.

Recent Developments and Future Changes

In a significant development announced on May 20, 2025, all four ITV Studios daytime shows are scheduled to leave Television Centre by January 2026. Good Morning Britain will relocate to ITN headquarters, while Lorraine, This Morning, and Loose Women will move to a new central London location yet to be announced.

Historical Significance and Modern Transformation

The building, affectionately known as ‘the concrete doughnut’ by the late Sir Terry Wogan, has achieved Grade II-listed status for many of its architectural elements, celebrating its mid-century design. One of its most distinctive features is the circular Helios courtyard, which houses a statue of the Greek god and is now accessible to the public for the first time.

Today, Television Centre has evolved into a vibrant mixed-use development. The scheme includes office and studio space for the BBC, private residential homes with gardens, a boutique hotel, and various entertainment and leisure facilities, representing a new chapter in the building’s storied history.