Thursday, August 21, 2008
UPDATE ON THE BENNETT CENTRE FIRE
The annex of the Bennett Centre sustained significant damage due to the fire yesterday, with the roof being completely destroyed. The older Bennett Centre building was not damaged by the fire, but has sustained smoke damage. There is no admittance to the building at this time and the District anticipates it will at least six weeks before staff can return.
The Edmonton Fire Department is currently investigating the annex site to determine the cause of the fire. Once they have completed their investigation, Edmonton Public Schools will consider next steps regarding the annex.
The staff from the Bennett Centre has been contacting those schools and organizations that have upcoming bookings to inform them of the fire. Over the next few days, the staff will be considering whether some of the workshops offered can be hosted at another site until the old Bennett Centre is available.
All overnight camps booked at the Bennett Centre have been cancelled until further notice.
There is no estimate of damage at this time.
For further information, contact:
Jane Farrell, Supervisor
Communications
Phone: 780.429.8290
Cell: 780.970.4356