MULTIPLE businesses in Reading have been forced to close today (May 27) after a fire.

The incident started yesterday afternoon (May 26) in Friar Street and police have closed the road off from the public due to an ‘unsafe structure’.

As a result, several businesses have been forced to remain closed today and it is unknown when they will be able to reopen.

READ MORE: Friar Street shut with large police presence after fire

A list of businesses that are closed are as follows:

  • Eyesite Reading. In a post on Facebook, the business said: “We are currently closed due to the fire on Friar Street yesterday. We will update if there’s any changes. Our phones are being redirected to our other branches.”
  • Eclectic Games. In a post on Facebook, the business said: “Safety cordon is still in place this morning, so we won’t be open today. We will keep everyone updated as and when things change, and when we get access again. We reiterate that our premises only had smoke in them from the ambient environment, all our staff are fine, and the safety cordon covers the entirety of Friar Street and Union Street.”
  • Timpson
  • WHSmith
  • McDonalds
  • Mystic Lounge Tattoo
  • CMart

Business on the other side of the road have began to reopen or have been able to gain access from a different route.

Ruby Reds Hairdressing has posted on Facebook to let customers know how to reach them.

It said: “Business as usual. Due to a huge fire in Friar Street on Friday afternoon, Friar Street itself will remain closed today.

“We are open as usual but you can only gain access to the salon via Garrard Street from Greyfriars road or station road. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

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Access to the hotels, Ibis and Novotel, are still available as well.

Police will also being to reopen half of Union Street when a gas company confirm it’s safe.