A CALL for an independent report into a major fire in Basingstoke to be published has been made by the town’s MP, so "lessons can be learned". 

Maria Miller has asked for “complete transparency” regarding the fire in Oakridge Road on May 27 which destroyed or damaged the homes of 24 families.

“It is essential that families and all residents in flats of the same design know exactly how the fire started and more importantly why it spread so quickly, so that lessons can be learned,” she said.

READ MORE: Exclusive: Fire service gives update on major Basingstoke fire following Gazette probe

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWRS) previously said its investigation into the fire, tackled by 80 firefighters, had concluded after it determined it to be accidental, caused by an electrical fault.

However, following questioning by the Gazette into how the fire spread so quickly and what lessons have been learned, this week the fire service gave an update. It said investigations are ongoing and that a peer review from a partner fire service is due to conclude shortly.

Responding to the update, Dame Maria has called for the independent report to be published in full and for a formal meeting with residents to review the results.

SEE ALSO: Community unites in support of 24 families forced out of homes by Oakridge Road fire

She said: “The severity of the Oakridge fire has caused huge concern amongst residents, particularly the way the fire, which has been judged by fire experts to be accidental, spread so rapidly from a third-floor balcony, into the roof area and balconies below.

“It’s important that there is complete transparency on the cause of the fire and on the part played by the building’s construction and I welcome Hampshire and IOW Fire and Rescue Service confirming that their counterpart in Kent is now carrying out an independent report into the Oakridge fire which will include considering the construction of the building.

“This independent report is due to be completed in September and I have asked Hampshire Fire and Rescue to ensure this report is published in full and a meeting with residents held to explain the findings.

“It is also essential that families and all residents in flats of the same design know exactly how the fire started and more importantly why it spread so quickly, so that lessons can be learned and what necessary safety measures are to be implemented.”

SEE MORE: Fire service identifies cause of major blaze in Basingstoke

"Vivid, the landlord at Oakridge, has told me they are keeping residents updated, but one of the learnings from Grenfell is the need to ensure residents voices are heard properly.

“That is why I am calling for a meeting between residents, the landlord Vivid, and the fire service to ensure there is clear and direct communication with the people whose homes are affected."

Residents previously told the Gazette that the fire “spread within seconds” and were left with concerns about how this happened when the blaze started during the day at around 3pm.