Historic former bowling pavilion to be demolished after Mowbray Park fire

Earlier this month, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue service was called to reports of a fire at the former bowling pavilion.

This week, Sunderland City Council confirmed that it is now demolishing the building to make the area safe.

Extensive work on the trees is also under way to allow access to the area.

The fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.

While Northumbria Police had been treating the incident as arson, the fire service later confirmed to the Echo that it is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault within the roof space of the pavilion.

Although the fire hadn’t spread from the building, more appliances than usual where present at the scene as it was difficult to gain access. Since the incident the pavilion had suffered fire, heat and smoke damage.

Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, Councillor Amy Wilson said: “After inspection of the extensive fire damage to the bowling pavilion, it was decided that the structure was unsafe.

“The surrounding area was cordoned off to allow demolition work to be carried out and the trees to be made safe.

“We appreciate the patience of visitors to Mowbray park while the work is completed.”

A JCB vehicle was present at the scene on Tuesday, October 15 as the demolishing of the building began.