Somerset House Plans Phased Reopening After Fire

Somerset House is set to begin a phased reopening this weekend after a significant fire affected its West Wing. Over 100 firefighters responded to the blaze, which broke out on Saturday and was successfully contained, with no injuries reported. The Courtauld Gallery, located in the North Wing, reopened promptly since it was not directly impacted, while the West and South Wings remain closed for damage assessment and investigation. Somerset House Trust Director Jonathan Reekie confirmed that no artworks were in the affected area and expressed gratitude for the emergency services. Creative workspaces and other facilities are expected to reopen as soon as possible, with ongoing support from the community. The government's arts minister stated there would be collaboration to assess the fire's impact on this historical venue.