ROADS in Bromsgrove have re-opened following a huge fire at the former Greyhound pub on Rock Hill

More than 20 firefighters were called to the blaze, on Monday night, which has seen two teens arrested on suspicion of arson.

A 14-year-old and a 15-year-old, both from Bromsgrove, are currently in police custody. 

While crews tackled the fire from above, other firefighters wore breathing apparatus to enter the building at ground level.

Police also attended and motorists were warned to avoid the area as Fox Lane and Rock Hill were closed.

Worcester Road was also closed.

Police have now said that Fox Lane, which remained closed, will be opened.

Meanwhile, the developers have said they will work to make the area safe for those living nearby.

Jonathan Babb, technical director for Catesby Estates, said: “Since purchasing the property nearly three years ago it has been the target for numerous recorded incidences of break-in, vandalism and anti-social behaviour, despite our best efforts to repeatedly secure the building.

"The building has been secured in accordance with the advice received from both the police and the local authority.”

He added: “We would like to thank the emergency services for containing the fire, and we will now be working with the council to re-secure the site and ensure the safety of those living in close proximity of the building.”

Following its closure in April 2016, the pub, owned by Catesby Estates has been unoccupied, and a planning application submitted to Bromsgrove District Council in 2017 for its demolition was refused.

Last year developers reiterated their desire to build homes on the site.

The plans have prompted more than 300 angry letters from residents against the development, with many saying the pub is part of the town’s heritage.