IN the early hours of Saturday, August 17, a fire broke out at the cherished amusement arcade along Mumbles Pier, causing extensive damage to the historic landmark. Six crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene at 3:51 a.m., where they battled the blaze that was later determined to have been accidental.
The fire, which was located in the roof space on the western side of the building, resulted in significant heat and smoke damage to large portions of the arcade. The arcade, a beloved destination for families for generations, is the latest Mumbles landmark to suffer such a fate. In 2022, the nearby old Cinderella’s nightclub was also destroyed by fire, marking the second significant loss for the community in recent years.
A spokesperson for the fire service detailed the extensive efforts made to extinguish the blaze. “Crews from Swansea West, Swansea Central, Morriston, Gorseinon, Pontarddulais, and Port Talbot fire stations responded to the incident. The fire was located in a single-storey building measuring approximately 20m by 20m, used as an amusement arcade. Significant heat and smoke damage was caused to large parts of the building.”
To bring the fire under control, the crews utilized 12 breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets, a 45mm safety jet, a thermal imaging camera, a hydrant, and lighting equipment. Re-inspections conducted later that morning confirmed no further hotspots, and a subsequent investigation concluded that the fire was accidental.
In the aftermath of the fire, the community has rallied around those affected, including Claire’s Babylove classes, a local playgroup that lost all of its equipment in the blaze. A GoFundMe appeal has been launched with a target of £500 to help replace the lost items.
The fire at Mumbles Pier is a sobering reminder of the vulnerability of the area’s beloved landmarks. As the community begins the process of recovery, the hope remains that the arcade can be restored, allowing future generations to continue enjoying this treasured piece of Mumbles history.
